Monday, September 21, 2009

Leasing is Back

Van Andel & Flikkema announces its return to leasing, with special rates on the 2010 Chrysler Town & Country and the Jeep Liberty and Wrangler.

Lease programs are available on all 2010 Chrysler, Dodge, and Jeep models.

Van Andel & Flikkema also announces special purchase incentives on remaining 2009 models, including zero-percent financing and up to $4,500 cash back through GMAC.

On 2010 models, up to $3,000 cash back is available with reduced-rate financing.

Hurry in!

Friday, August 28, 2009

The CARS rebate program AKA Cash For Clunkers, is now officially over.

Thanks to all of you that chose to do business with Van Andel-Flikkema during this program; it is greatly appreciated. We know there are many places you could go and we are humbled when you choose us.

Best to all.

Wednesday, July 22, 2009

Cash For Clunkers

Van Andel & Flikkema Chrysler JeepOffers up to $4,500 off
With or Without Clunker Trade-In


· Van Andel & Flikkema Chrysler Jeep participates in government “Cash for Clunkers” program beginning July 23
· All customers can save up to $4,500 off a new vehicle, even without a “clunker” trade-in at Van Andel & Flikkema Chrysler/Jeep


Van Andel & Flikkema Chrysler/Jeep expands the savings opportunity of the U.S. Government’s Car Allowance Rebate Systems (CARS), more commonly known as “Cash for Clunkers,” by offering up to $4,500 off an eligible new car purchase whether or not customers bring in qualifying “clunkers.”

“The ‘Cash for Clunkers’ program is a great way to get old, gas-guzzling vehicles off the road,” said Van Andel-Flikkema’s Chris Brokaw, Sales Manager. “We found a way to make it better by offering the same savings even if a trade-in doesn’t meet the official ‘clunker’ definition.

“If the trade-in is a qualifying ‘clunker,’ then we will add to the government’s rebate for a total savings up to $9,000. We call it ‘Double Ca$h for Your Old Car.’”

The Administration established the CARS program to help consumers replace older, gas guzzling vehicles with new, more fuel-efficient vehicles and to help stimulate the national economy.

The government credit is $3,500 or $4,500 depending on the amount of fuel economy improvement between the old and new vehicle.

Important points for consumers to know about CARS include the following:
Vehicle must be less than 25 years old on the trade-in date
Only new vehicle purchases qualify
Generally, trade-in vehicle must get less than 18 mpg and new vehicles must meet certain fuel economy requirements
Trade-in vehicle must be registered and insured continuously for the full year preceding the trade-in date
The program ends Nov. 1, 2009 or when the government funds are exhausted (whichever comes first)

“Many drivers want a fuel-efficient new vehicle,’” John Flikkema III said. “But, some customers are discovering their old vehicle doesn’t guzzle enough gas to meet the government’s ‘clunker’ guidelines.”

Van Andel & Flikkema on Plainfield Ave in Grand Rapids is offering $3,500 or $4,500 savings on most 2009MY new Chrysler & Jeep vehicles. Customers are not required to trade-in a ‘clunker’ to benefit from this savings. However, if customers do have “clunkers,” they can save up to a total of $9,000 off eligible new vehicles.

Consumers can learn more about the CARS program at http://www.cars.gov/ or by calling the U.S. Department of Transportation’s information hotline at 866-(CAR)-7891.

The staff at Van Andel & Flikkema Chrysler/Jeep is available to provide estimates on the value of trade-in vehicles and answer individual questions about the program.

Van Andel & Flikkema Chrysler/Jeep is an authorized new vehicle dealer affiliated with Chrysler Group LLC and sells Chrysler & Jeep vehicles. Chrysler Group LLC was formed in 2009 from a global strategic alliance with Fiat Group and produces Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge, Mopar® and Global Electric Motors (GEM) brand vehicles and products.

Van Andel & Flikkema Chrysler/Jeep provides warranty service for all Chrysler, Jeep and Dodge vehicles.

Wednesday, June 3, 2009

Better than expected results for May!

May Sales Highlights
  • May was the best retail sales month of 2009, with 74,741 retail units sold.
  • Chrysler's retail market share is higher than May of last year and also stronger than last month
  • Jeep Wrangler continued its strong upward sales trend for the fifth month in a row, with May retail sales up 4 percent year-over-year compared to May 2008 and up 8 percent compared to the previous month. Wrangler also increased its share of the segment for the fifth month in a row.
  • Chrysler brand retail sales improved 32 percent compared to the previous month
  • Dodge brand retail sales increased 23 percent compared to the previous month
  • Jeep brand retail sales were up 21 percent compared to April 2009

Thursday, May 7, 2009

We Support Our Military



HONORING THOSE WHO SERVE
Chrysler LLC and its Chrysler, Jeep® and Dodge dealers are proud to support the members of the U.S. Armed Forces and their families. Whether it’s defending freedom abroad, securing our homeland or making democracy safe for all, these patriots are the backbone of our country. “Honoring Those Who Serve” is our special way of saying thanks for everything they do.

BUYING IN THE U.S.The $500 cash allowance service covers new 2009 Chrysler, Jeep® and Dodge vehicles (excludes Sprinter, Viper and all SRT® models) and is extended to all qualified military personnel. Go ahead, enjoy the freedom to roam in the country you serve and defend.
As our way of recognizing those who risk their lives to defend the U.S., we offer:

$500 CASH ALLOWANCE
LUBE, OIL AND FILTER SERVICE FOR UP TO THREE-YEARS
[1] The $500 cash allowance and service covers new 2008 Chrysler, Jeep® and Dodge vehicles (excludes Sprinter, Viper and all SRT® models) and is extended to all qualified military personnel. Go ahead, enjoy the freedom to roam, in the Country you serve and defend. -->
See the Chrysler LLC Military Incentive Program Rules
BUYING OVERSEAS U.S. Military personnel / Civilian component (DOD) stationed, or on TDY assignment, abroad for at least 30 days can benefit from the various services provided by the Exchange New Car Sales program, our exclusive factory authorized distributor of Chrysler, Dodge and Jeep® products.
Chrysler LLC Receives Court Approval of "First Day Motions"

PRESS RELEASE:
Court Authorizes Continued Payment of Employee Wages and Benefits, and Customer Warranty Programs

Auburn Hills, Mich., May 1, 2009 -
Chrysler LLC announced today that the U.S. Bankruptcy Court has granted the relief the company requested in a series of court filings known as "First-day motions." The orders issued by the court will help the company continue to operate its business during the reorganization proceedings.

Yesterday, Chrysler announced that, as a result of the comprehensive restructuring plan agreed to by many of its stakeholders, it had reached an agreement in principle to establish a global strategic alliance with Fiat SpA. Chrysler filed voluntary petitions under Chapter 11 of the U.S. Bankruptcy Code in U.S. Bankruptcy Court to facilitate the restructuring and alliance.
First-day motions were filed to support Chrysler's employees, dealers, vendors and suppliers, together with its customers and other stakeholders. The Court granted approval for the company’s request to continue payment of wages and health and welfare benefits to employees and contractors, and continue its customer warranty programs.

Bob Nardelli, Chrysler Chairman and CEO, said, "We accomplished a great deal today, including approval of certain First-day motions, which will enable us to transition into Chapter 11 and maintain normal operations as we move forward. Our focus now is on the next steps of this process, which we will pursue as efficiently and deliberately as possible."
The Chrysler Chapter 11 case was filed on April 30 in the U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Southern District of New York. The case number is 09-50002, with the Honorable Arthur J. Gonzalez presiding. More information about Chrysler's restructuring is available at www.ChryslerRestructuring.com


About Chrysler LLC Chrysler LLC, headquartered in Auburn Hills, Mich., produces Chrysler, Jeep®, Dodge and Mopar® brand vehicles and products. Total sales worldwide in 2008 were 2 million vehicles. Outside of North America, 2008 was the second-best sales year in the last decade and the third-best ever for Chrysler International. Chrysler LLC’s product lineup features some of the world's most recognizable vehicles, including the Chrysler 300 and Town & Country, Jeep Wrangler and Grand Cherokee and Dodge Challenger and Ram. Reinforcing a commitment to bring to market a broad array of advanced electric vehicles across all its brands, Chrysler has introduced five electric-drive vehicle prototypes since the fall of 2008. At least one of these vehicles will be produced in 2010 for consumers in North American markets, with European market production later. The Chrysler Foundation, the company's philanthropic arm, annually supports hundreds of charitable organizations in the United States and throughout the world. In 2008, the Foundation gave approximately $21 million in charitable donations.
Follow Chrysler news and video on:

Chrysler Connect blog: http://blog.chryslerllc.com
Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/chryslercom
YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/pentastarvideo
Streetfire: http://members.streetfire.net/profile/ChryslerVideo.htm

Source: Chrysler Media Services

Wednesday, April 8, 2009

Special Tax Break for New Vehicle Purchases Signed into Law

Great News for those of you considering a new vehicle in 2009!



In an effort to keep you informed of the latest activity out of Washington, we are pleased to report the following legislation, intended to stimulate new vehicle sales, has been enacted. The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009, recently signed into law by President Obama, entitles taxpayers who purchase a new vehicle between February 16, 2009 and December 31, 2009, the ability to deduct state and local sales and excise taxes paid on the purchase.

All new vehicle purchases up to $49,500 qualify!

Monday, March 16, 2009

Rocky Mountain Edition adds excitement, value to Jeep® lineup

Posted Monday, Mar 16, 2009, 11:19 am in Jeep

The new 2009 Jeep® Patriot, Jeep Liberty and Jeep Grand Cherokee Rocky Mountain Edition models expand the fun, freedom, utility and available best-in-class 4×4 capability that Jeep is known for—now with even more customer features at a great value.

The 2009 Rocky Mountain Edition models offer approximately $1,000 off popular bundled customer features, including innovative uconnect® tunes, power sun roof and aluminum wheels. In total, the 2009 Rocky Mountain Edition package adds more than $2,300 in content for $1,595.

“The new 2009 Jeep Patriot, Jeep Liberty and Jeep Grand Cherokee Rocky Mountain Editions add more value and features to our iconic Jeep lineup,” Mike Accavitti, Director—Chrysler, Jeep and Dodge Brands, said. “And with Jeep’s best-in-class legendary 4×4 capability, our new 2009 Jeep Rocky Mountain Editions are ready to make any adventure—from the snow-covered mountain trails to sand dunes at the beach—even more fun.”

The starting manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) on new 2009 Jeep Rocky Mountain Editions (including destination) are:
  • Jeep Patriot Rocky Mountain Edition at $19,765
  • Jeep Liberty Rocky Mountain Edition at $25,355
  • Jeep Grand Cherokee Rocky Mountain Edition at $32,825

The 2009 Jeep Rocky Mountain Edition models are available for ordering now and will arrive at Jeep dealerships in the United States and Canada later this month.


2009 Jeep Patriot Rocky Mountain Edition

Based on the 2009 Jeep Patriot Sport model, the new Jeep Patriot Rocky Mountain Edition adds uconnect tunes 30-gigabyte stereo, uconnect studios Sirius Satellite Radio, leather-wrapped steering wheel with radio controls, body-color door handles and liftgate applique, 17-inch aluminum wheels with P215/60R17 all-season tires, “Rocky Mountain” driver and front-passenger door badging, power sun roof with express open/close operation, nine premium Boston Acoustics speakers including subwoofer, two additional articulating liftgate speakers and a 458-watt amplifier.


The Patriot 4×4 Rocky Mountain Edition features the Freedom Drive I™ 4×4 system providing best-in-class four-wheel-drive fuel economy and best-in-class capability in the compact sport-utility vehicle segment.


The Patriot Rocky Mountain Edition features a 2.4-liter engine, coupled with a five-speed manual transaxle that produces 172 horsepower and 165 lb.-ft. of torque and delivers a best-in-class 23 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway on two-wheel-drive and four-wheel-drive models. A Continuously Variable Transaxle (CVT2) with Auto Stick also is available for both models.


For Jeep Patriot customers seeking maximum fuel efficiency without a manual shift, an optional 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine is mated to the CVT2 with Auto Stick to provide 158 horsepower and 141 lb.-ft. of torque. The spirited 2.0-liter delivers an EPA 23 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway and is available on two-wheel-drive equipped 2009 Jeep Patriot Rocky Mountain Edition models.


The Patriot Rocky Mountain Edition will be available in all-new Optic Green Crystal Pearl, as well as Brilliant Black Crystal Pearl, Inferno Red Crystal Pearl and Bright Silver Metallic paint colors.


2009 Jeep Liberty Rocky Mountain Edition

The new Jeep Liberty Rocky Mountain Edition is based on the 2009 Jeep Liberty Sport model and is available in both 4×4 and 4×2 models. Included in the Rocky Mountain Edition package are refreshed 17-inch aluminum wheels with tech silver paint finish, P235/65 R17 A/S tires, uconnect tunes 30-gigabyte radio, power sun roof, deep-tinted glass, speed control and a ‘Rocky Mountain’ badge.


The 2009 Jeep Liberty remains true to its legendary 4×4 heritage by offering two Jeep Trail Rated® four-wheel-drive systems: Command-Trac® standard with 4×4 models and the optional Selec-Trac® II on 4×4 models.


A 3.7-liter SOHC V-6 engine is standard on all Jeep Liberty Sport and Limited models sold in the United States. The 3.7-liter SOHC V-6 engine provides the 2009 Jeep Liberty with competitive peak power and torque while providing smooth, quiet operation and proven durability. It produces 210 horsepower at 5,200 rpm and 235 lb.-ft. of torque at 4,000 rpm. Fuel economy is estimated at 16 mpg city and 22 mpg on the highway (4×2) and 15 city/21 highway (4×4).
Towing capacity on all models is 5,000 pounds maximum when equipped with the optional Trailer Tow Group.


The 2009 Rocky Mountain Edition will be available in Deep Water Blue, Bright Silver Metallic, Inferno Red and Brilliant Black exterior paint colors.


2009 Jeep Grand Cherokee Rocky Mountain Edition

The new Grand Cherokee Rocky Mountain Edition is based on the 2009 Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo model and is available in 4×4 and 4×2 models. Included in the Rocky Mountain Edition package are 17-inch machined-faced aluminum wheels with gray painted pockets, power sun roof, Boston Acoustics sound system, uconnect tunes 30-gigabyte stereo, heated front seats, 12-volt power outlet, chromed body-side molding and a ‘Rocky Mountain’ edition badge.
Since its introduction in 1992, the Jeep Grand Cherokee has revolutionized the SUV market. With its best-in-class traction capability and power, the Jeep Grand Cherokee is designed, engineered and built to master every imaginable day-to-day driving condition, whether on- or off-road.


The 2009 Grand Cherokee Laredo model features a standard soft-touch center armrest cover, leather-wrapped park brake handle, floor mats, interior chromed door handles and audio control buttons.


The standard 3.7-liter V-6 engine provides the 2009 Jeep Grand Cherokee with 210 horsepower at 5,200 rpm and 235 lb.-ft. of torque at 4,000 rpm. A sophisticated electronic throttle control system tailors throttle response to pedal movement based on operating conditions and maintains a consistent vehicle speed on rolling grades when cruise control is active. An exhaust gas recirculation valve helps increase fuel economy.


The Grand Cherokee’s available flexible-fuel vehicle (FFV) 4.7-liter V-8 engine incorporates electronic throttle control, two spark plugs per cylinder, increased compression ratio, improved cylinder-head port flow and a new combustion system. The result is 305 horsepower at 5,650 rpm, a 30 percent increase, and 334 lb.-ft. of torque at 3,950 rpm, a 10 percent increase compared with the previous generation 4.7-liter V-8 engine. It also delivers more than a 5 percent increase in fuel economy. This FFV engine also gives customers the ability to use up to an 85 percent concentration of ethanol (E85) to fuel their vehicles.


Standard Electronic Stability Program (ESP) with Electronic Roll Mitigation maintains vehicle stability in a variety of road surface and weather conditions. Hill Descent Control, Hill Start Assist and Trailer Sway Control deliver off-road and towing capability.


The 2009 Jeep Grand Cherokee Rocky Mountain Edition will be available in four exterior paint colors: new Inferno Red, Light Graystone, Bright Silver and Brilliant Black.

Wednesday, March 4, 2009

Encouraging News out of Chrysler!

In a tough market, Chrysler's Retail Sales were down much less than reported in the media (which includes fleet sales). They were also down much less than the other Domestic automakers and Chrysler actually sold more cars to retail customers than Ford!

February U.S. sales fall; retail share improves
Posted Tuesday, Mar 3, 2009, 4:19 pm in Company

Chrysler LLC today reported February U.S. retail sales of 66,658 units, a 26 percent decrease versus 2008, while the total retail industry was down a projected 35 percent.
Chrysler retail industry market share increased to 11 percent versus 9.6 percent in February 2008—an improvement of 1.4 percentage points. Total February 2009 U.S. sales include a fleet reduction of 71 percent year-over-year for the same period, furthering Chrysler’s focus on emphasizing retail over fleet.

“We see our retail number as a shining light of positive news,” Vice Chairman and President Jim Press said. “By working together with our strong dealer body, we will continue to move the needle on sales and service. Additionally, our focus on quality is evident in the 2009 Dodge Ram, which continues to demonstrate our ability to improve the quality of our products. Recently reported data is not representative of the positive progress Chrysler has made over the last year. In the last 12 months, our corporate warranty claim rates are down over 30 percent.”

Press added that even though Chrysler is seeing a firming of retail demand, the overall economy is still being influenced by the lack of available credit for consumers.

“The Chrysler Financial TARP fund loan of $1.5 billion has started to provide positive traction in the marketplace,” he said. “During this important historical time, we are making strong progress as we move forward with our stakeholders to continue the restructuring of our company. We have a special bond with the American people now and pledge to continue our efforts to deliver the best quality, better fuel efficiency and the best value in the marketplace.”
February sales highlights

* Chrysler LLC retail sales (excluding fleet) increased 26 percent versus January, while retail sales for the industry increased 17 percent versus January

* Chrysler ranked second in retail sales among the Detroit three

* With best-in-class fuel economy, sales of Dodge Journey continued to grow as sales reached 4,615 units

* Sales of the Dodge Challenger (3,283 units) continue to accelerate and set a new monthly record

* Rock-solid Jeep® Wrangler sales increased 28 percent (9,088 units) compared with February 2008

“The availability of consumer credit from Chrysler Financial along with a consistent promotional message and advertising share of voice influenced the improvement in our February retail sales,” Steven Landry, Executive Vice President, Sales and Marketing, Service and Parts, said. “Overall, our retail sales position in February can be attributed to an increase in awareness of our Employee Pricing Plus Plus program. It truly gives our dealers a message that resonates with consumers. We will continue this program in March. In addition, March is Dodge truck month, and we will add the availability of ‘no charge HEMI®’ on the Ram 1500.”
March incentives

In March, Chrysler LLC begins Dodge truck month by delivering the award-winning 5.7-liter HEMI engine at no charge on the Dodge Ram 1500. The “no charge HEMI” option is worth as much as $1,200 to customers and is available in conjunction with the Employee Pricing Plus Plus program for 2008 and 2009 model year vehicles.

Continuing through March 31, Chrysler LLC’s Employee Pricing Plus Plus program offers the employee price to all customers purchasing or leasing a new 2008 or 2009 Chrysler, Jeep or Dodge vehicle. In addition to the employee price, customers are eligible for cash discounts of as much as $3,500 for 2009 model year vehicles and as much as $6,000 on 2008 model year vehicles. Plus, qualified customers can obtain zero percent financing for as long as 36 months through Chrysler Financial.

Chrysler LLC’s total February U.S. sales were 84,050 units (including fleet), a decrease of 44 percent.

As evidence of the company’s continuing support of its dealers, it has reduced floor planning costs and inventory, keeping inventory fresh for customers. The company finished February with 350,966 units, representing a 100-day supply. With the lowest level of inventory of its domestic competitors, total inventory is down 20 percent compared with February 2008 when it totaled 436,399 units.