Autofile 4sept web version

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The trusted voice of the auto industry for more than 25 years www.autofile.co.nz

Issue 16-2015 5 September 2015

Traders need to use reputable suppliers C

ar dealers have been warned to do their homework properly before buying aftermarket components and systems from overseas and online sources. The advice from the Imported Motor Vehicle Industry Association (IMVIA) comes after an apparent scam was brought to Autofile’s attention by a trader keen to alert others about it. Gary Mitchell has been left out of pocket by a website claiming to be based in Sydney and selling “genuine” after-market navigation discs for used imports.

He discovered the website www.navigationau.com, which is run by a company that calls itself Navigation Systems Australia, via a Google search. “The navigation software from this site was about 50 per cent cheaper than buying it elsewhere,” says Mitchell, of REM Wholesale Cars in Christchurch. “During an email conversation, it was claimed it would work in a Japanese import so we ordered a copy.” After paying AU$425, or about NZ$470, the disc was posted to the

dealership, but it didn’t work when Mitchell tried to install it. He then attempted to contact the supplier by email to complain and via a phone number listed on the website, but received no response. “Once they get your money, they don’t contact you again. We sent some emails and never heard anything back.” After realising the website is probably a scam, Mitchell quickly alerted his contacts in the industry and discovered he isn’t the only Kiwi to have lost money. “I have heard of other dealers

In this issue p9 Dealer’s identity hijacked p10 Turbo range revved up p14 Ford opens parts centre p16 Green policies in Japan p23 Weak dollar hits buying p25 Record sales expected

Specialised training that’s proven to increase profits

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Dealerships feeling pressure

T

he chairman of Colonial Motor Company (CMC) has warned the automotive market is easing back with pressure being put on dealers’ margins. Jim Gibbons says economic conditions – such as the drop in forecasted pay-outs to dairy farmers – are also being felt, although he is confident CMC will tackle future challenges.

The Wellington-based company has returned preliminary net profits before tax of $24.35 million for the 12 months ending June 30, which is a decrease of about 9.3 per cent from $27.95m compared to 2013/14. Its total operating revenues climbed to $789.38m from $699.31m while profits for the period came in at $18.71m – down from $20.21m. Gibbons notes: “The strong

growth of past years has eased. In this market, margins are tighter putting pressure on our car dealerships. “Sales and profitability of heavy trucks remain strong with continuing forward orders. Tractors have been adversely affected by the declining dairy pay-out. “The outlook is for a less favourable environment with a

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Designed with safety in mind

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