Car Buyer's Notebook.com: Audio Archives

August 30, 2005

Car Buyer's Notebook Podcast #69: Land Rover LR3 -- A Drive into Rugged Luxury

In this podcast, we discuss the the Land Rover LR3 -- what an SUV should be -- it delivers powerful, truck-like performance while bathing the lucky driver in luxury amenities.

To listen to the show, click here to play it directly on your computer. Or you can subscribe to the daily Car Buyer's Notebook Podcast feed by putting this URL in your podcatching software: http://carbuyersnotebook.libsyn.com/rss

Posted by Frank at 08:38 AM | Comments (0)

August 22, 2005

Car Buyer's Notebook Podcast #68: California Now in Charge of U.S. Environmental Policy

In this podcast we cover Oregon and Washington states' moves to adopt California emissions guidelines, and also discuss how it is increasingly up to the states to pass any sort of legislation that is not in the sole best interest of industry.

Posted by Frank at 05:31 PM | Comments (2)

August 19, 2005

Car Buyer's Notebook Podcast #67: German Industrial Intrigue -- Machiavelli Would Be Proud

In this podcast we go completely off the deep end and draw parallels between the goings-on at DaimlerChrysler, Volkswagen and the Vatican with history from the European Middle Ages.

If you don't agree with me, then obviously you don't work by yourself in a studio and entertain bizarre ideas.

Posted by Frank at 03:05 PM | Comments (0)

August 18, 2005

Car Buyer's Notebook Podcast #66: Horsepower Inflation and Get Rid of the Junk in Your Trunk

In this podcast we cover the horsepower inflation "scandal" that has forced Toyota and Honda, among others, to restate horsepower rating from as much as 10%, down to just a couple of points.

Also, we do a little bit on saving gas, by addressing the "junk in your trunk."

Posted by Frank at 08:57 AM | Comments (0)

August 13, 2005

Car Buyer's Notebook Podcast #65: High Gas Prices Got You Down? Start Walking

High gas prices are unavoidably in the news, and this podcast includes some practical, healthy and fun solutions to decreasing your weekly and monthly gas consumption. It ain't a cure all, but every little bit helps.

Posted by Frank at 01:51 PM | Comments (0)

August 12, 2005

Car Buyer's Notebook Podcast #64: How 'Bout that Prius HOV Access Bill?

In this podcast, we discuss the de facto end game of the California Hybrid HOV access law -- it's tailor made for the 50,000 Toyota Priuses that have already been sold in the state! [Only 75,000 stickers will be issued.]

Hey, this is nothing bad against Toyota -- they're just the beneficiaries of a piece of outrageously bad legislation.

Posted by Frank at 12:53 PM | Comments (0)

August 11, 2005

Car Buyer's Notebook Podcast #63: How to Make Your Own Biodiesel

In this podcast, we go over in admittedly cursory format, how to make your own biodiesel, starting with just three easy to obtain ingredients. You may find, however, this is just for educational purposes and not really a DIY lesson!

Posted by Frank at 09:10 PM | Comments (0)

August 10, 2005

Car Buyer's Notebook Podcast #62: Nein! Bernhard Not Going to DCX

In this podcast, we relay DaimlerChrysler's denial that they are going to hire back Wolfgang Bernhard, who is now at VW. The rumor, published yesterday, was that CEO-elect Dieter Zetsche was going to hire Bernhard to run Mercedes.

We also talk about the new XM Roady XT satellite radio -- a little bigger than a business card it's the smallest yet, and we also weigh in on the obvious cause behind the rise in motorcycle fatalities.

Posted by Frank at 08:31 AM | Comments (0)

August 09, 2005

Car Buyer's Notebook Podcast #61: Auto Industry Rumors Gone Wild!

In this podcast, we discuss the rumor that Wolfgang Bernhard may return to DaimlerChrysler and be given responsibility for running Mercedes -- a job he was previously given but which he snatched from the jaws of victory when he opened his mouth and said that Mercedes would have to be restructured in the same painful way he did at Chrysler.

Second, we talk about the news that Mississippi Governor Haley Barbour is lobbying Hyundai-Kia Motors to build a proposed Kia plant in his state.

Posted by Frank at 06:02 PM | Comments (0)

August 08, 2005

Car Buyer's Notebook Podcast #60: Crimefighting Cheerleaders, Leasing's Back in NY and Jeep Diesel is Chuggling Along

In this podcast, we discuss the unique crimefighting skills of a high school cheerleading squad, and reveal why leasing is coming back to NY State.

Also, the Jeep Liberty Diesel is selling better than projected, which is good news for expanding diesel plants in SUVs across the board.

Posted by Frank at 08:06 PM | Comments (0)

August 07, 2005

Car Buyer's Notebook Podcast #59: A Podcast About Satellite Radio?

This podcast talks about the NY Times-XM deal, Howard Stern's move to all pay-per-view, all the time, and provides some specific insights as to why you should be checking into satellite radio for your vehicle.

Plus, there's some bonus country music liner notes!

Posted by Frank at 01:42 PM | Comments (0)

August 06, 2005

Car Buyer's Notebook Podcast #58: Can Ford Sell a Million Pickups? Will Toyota Take the Small Pickup Crown?

Drilling down into the sales reports is always fun. In this podcast, after analyzing the Ford F-Series sales figures for July and the year-to-date, I discuss that it appears they have a long, though plausible, shot at selling a million trucks in one calendar year.

Also, the Toyota Tacoma continues to stay ahead of the competition in the small pickup category, and threatens to be the first international product to ever capture a light truck crown.

Posted by Frank at 11:36 PM | Comments (0)

August 04, 2005

Car Buyer's Notebook Podcast #56: Ford's Family Plan, True Blue Pricing and the Brand-New Ford Fusion

In this podcast, we discuss Ford's extended Family Plan discount pricing, the outrageous sales results of the F-150, the company's new pricing program for 2006, plus give you a brief look at the exciting Fusion entry-level sedan, due in just a few weeks.

Posted by Frank at 04:06 PM | Comments (0)

August 03, 2005

Car Buyer's Notebook Podcast #55: GM's Vice President Mark LaNeve Discusses the Total Value Promise

In this podcast, Mark LaNeve, GM's North American Vice President, discusses GM's new pricing strategy, where they reduced prices on 30 of their 2006 models. LaNeve says he believes the new prices will make it easier for potential customers to compare vehicles across different automakers.

Posted by Frank at 01:14 PM | Comments (0)

August 02, 2005

Car Buyer's Notebook Podcast #54: July Sales -- Detroit City Showed its Guns, and Everyone Else Had Fun, Too

In this podcast, we hear that, as expected the Detroit Three rocked the house with a combined 21.8% sales increase in July, thanks to their employee discount programs. But -- everyone else did well, from the top three Japanese makers to the value brands.

And, by the way, all three Detroiters are going for another month of employee prices.

Posted by Frank at 11:41 PM | Comments (0)

July 31, 2005

Car Buyer's Notebook Podcast #52: Top Five Metaphysical Reasons for Keeping Your Car Clean

With a title like that, does this episode really need an explanation? Perhaps the only funny thing here is that I am stone cold serious -- keeping your vehicle clean impacts a host of areas besides just the resale value. Listen and be enlightened!

Posted by Frank at 11:40 PM | Comments (0)

July 30, 2005

Car Buyer's Notebook Podcast #51: Highway Bill Contains Hybrid & Tow Truck Rules

This podcast discusses Congress passing a massive highway bill that is going to rain down jobs and moeny to practically every little nook and cranny of their districts -- and there's some new rules tucked in all the little potholes of the new law as well.

Included among these are an exemption allowing hybrids to drive on HOV lanes in California -- if CARB can figure out the language -- and a proviso allowing states to regulate tow truck companies that have been preying on unsuspecting drivers everywhere.

Posted by Frank at 11:18 PM | Comments (0)

July 29, 2005

Car Buyer's Notebook Podcast #50: Cadillac Bicycles Are Ready to Roll

This podcast is about the new Cadillac Bicycle line, and why I think they've hit on a winning formula. These bikes are good quality, with a recognizable brand name put out by a real bike company.

For folks in their 30s to 60s, people with actual money to buy consumer goods are going to pick these up and roll onto the streets with them. And on trails, too!

Posted by Frank at 11:24 PM | Comments (0)

July 28, 2005

Car Buyer's Notebook Podcast #49: The Key to Safe Driving is in Your Hand

This podcast is about a PSA campaign I recently worked on, addressing how to limit driver distraction. The solution is simple, and I think more effective than a mere slogan -- because to really get a change in crash statistics you have to change the behaviors that cause them.

Posted by Frank at 11:57 PM | Comments (0)

July 27, 2005

Car Buyer's Notebook Podcast #48: Buying a Used Car -- The Internet is Your Friend

Thinking of buying a used car or truck? One of the most overlooked tools in Internet auto buying is the "radius function" at used car sites.

If you're thinking of spending several thousand dollars, you can save a bundle if you're willing to travel to get the best price. Also, there's some handy negotiating tips in this episode.

Posted by Frank at 05:41 PM | Comments (0)

July 26, 2005

Car Buyer's Notebook Podcast #47: Performance and Racing Schools for Your Next Vacation

This podcast is about driving and performance schools you may want to check out for your next vacation. Why do nothing on your time off? We all work hard and I think it's better to have some rigorous fun than simply vegging out.

Here are the four programs discussed in today's podcast -- Land Rover, Team O'Neil, Skip Barber and The Driver's Edge.

Posted by Frank at 06:53 PM | Comments (1)

Car Buyer's Notebook Podcast #46: About This Podcast

This podcast is about ... this podcast. Specifically, I wanted to introduce myself, give some details about my background, invite people to write in with ideas and corrections, ask for help in spreading the word and so on.

In keeping with our regimen of publishing a daily podcast about cars, don't despair, this is a "meta" podcast, and there will be a regular daily update immediately following this one.

Most of all, I wanted to take the opportunity to thank everyone for listening, for their enthusiasm and their kind words. Thanks!
To listen to the show, click here to play it directly on your computer. Or you can subscribe to the daily Car Buyer's Notebook Podcast feed by putting this URL in your podcatching software: http://carbuyersnotebook.libsyn.com/rss

Posted by Frank at 03:13 PM | Comments (0)

July 25, 2005

Car Buyer's Notebook Podcast: Audi Branding, Plus the Solberg Subaru Report

This podcast covers a weird coincidence of two Audi branding spottings, plus a report from the Jersey event where World Rally Champ Petter Solberg signed swag and greeted about 300 fans.

Besides the car carrier carrying Audi's wrapped in branded shrouds, I started watching the movie, I, Robot, before I felt like following the Three Laws of Podcasting and got around to this production -- and what did I see but this future Audimobile, which is pretty well done. Especially, the logo where the four rings are outline in red -- good bang for the product placement bucks, I'd say.

Posted by Frank at 07:32 PM | Comments (0)

July 24, 2005

Car Buyer's Notebook Podcast: GM to Extend? What About VW? And Some Other Audio Bits

In this podcast, we join the guessing game about whether GM is going to extend their employee discount program, discuss what VW is going to do to increase sales, and also discuss a couple audio sites we've found recently.

Posted by Frank at 06:40 PM | Comments (0)

July 23, 2005

Car Buyer's Notebook Podcast: Jaywalking is Bad, Complete With Retro Jingle

Driving around this Saturday, I couldn't believe how many people were tempting fate by jaywalking with their eyes apparently closed. This podcast covers jaywalking, complete with an audio clip of a cover version of an early 1960's anti-jaywalking jingle -- totally cool!

For the record, the jingle was written by composer Vic Mizzy, whose contribution to public safety was detailed in this New York Daily News article. The cover version of the jingle, "In the Middle, In the Middle, In the Middle," was performed by the alternative rock band, They Might Be Giants.

Posted by Frank at 07:20 PM | Comments (0)

July 22, 2005

Car Buyer's Notebook Podcast: Nissan May be the One to Beat, Plus Smokies in Full Force

Driving to Jersey and back, the Smokies were out in full force and it made me wonder about the days when you used to get some verbal abuse with your tickets. Also, I talk about the power of Nissan's bold design moves in this podcast -- and thereby dub the carmaker the one to beat.

Posted by Frank at 08:18 PM | Comments (0)

July 21, 2005

Car Buyer's Notebook Podcast: Back-up Sensors, Rear View Cams, Employee Discount and Sexy to a Fault

This podcast covers some more high-tech goodies, rear sensors and cameras, mid-month results from Detroit's employee discount programs and a pair of "Fifth Wheel" stories -- including the video game sex scandal and blood for oil.

Posted by Frank at 12:26 PM | Comments (0)

July 20, 2005

Car Buyer's Notebook Podcast: Dates 'n Events

This podcast is all about dates and events -- covering Ford's Fusion Flash Concerts, Subaru's SUV in Seattle, Honda's new jet and delivery of Pontiac's long-awaited new Solstice.

Posted by Frank at 12:32 PM | Comments (0)

July 19, 2005

Car Buyer's Notebook Podcast: John Cleese Talks About Aftermarket Navigation Systems

In this podcast, TomTom, a European manufacturer of aftermarket GPS navigation, that looks like it has some pretty cool products -- including custom voices that give you directions in a more realistic dialect than standard-fare computer-generated voices. Included among these are famed silly man Basil Fawlty, aka John Cleese.

Also in this episode -- Commie Nostalgia in a Can, and How News Really Works in America.

Posted by Frank at 12:11 PM | Comments (0)

July 18, 2005

Car Buyer's Notebook Podcast: iPod Your Car, Employee Discount Update

In this podcast, we talk about a couple auto iPod solutions, and give you an update on the employee discount programs that appear to be sending Detroit Three sales up between 30-50%.

Posted by Frank at 01:01 PM | Comments (0)

July 17, 2005

Car Buyer's Notebook Podcast: More Aftermarket GPS/Navi Systems Set to Hit the Shelves

Just a day after we talked about buying aftermarket navigation systems, Garmin released information on five new products that fit a range of budgets. Listen to hear more about these upcoming products.

Posted by Frank at 02:36 PM | Comments (0)

July 16, 2005

Car Buyer's Notebook Podcast: Gelaendewagen Redesign, Volvo's New Convertible, VW Rattling

In this podcast, Mercedes has announced they're going to build a third SUV in Alabama, Volvo's got a brand new hard-top convertible [?] and VW's new chief is rattling the saber of change.

Posted by Frank at 12:40 PM | Comments (0)

July 15, 2005

Car Buyer's Notebook Podcast: New Subaru Impreza, World Rally Champ Peter Solberg and American Rally

There's two Subaru-centric events on tap this month -- first, they're rolling out the 2006 Impreza, including the WRX and STI models, and World Rally Champ Peter Solberg will be on hand in Mt. Holly, New Jersey on July 21 to sign autographs.

You can find out more about Solberg, who races under the Subaru banner, at www.SWRT.com.

Then, from July 28 to 30, the 15th annual running of the Maine Forest Rally will take place, where many of the top teams will be competing in Subaru-platform vehicles. Maybe, now that soccer and bike racing are gaining a foothold in America, this other world-fanatic sport will start to take hold.

Check out these other Rally articles:
Subaru Supports Rally in a Big Way
What is Rally?
Off to the Races: 2005 Susquehannock Trail ProRally
Seize the Joystick: CPD Racing Team

Posted by Frank at 02:30 PM | Comments (0)

July 14, 2005

Car Buyer's Notebook Podcast: Must Have High-Tech Gizmos

Hey, not everybody can afford a fifty to seventy thousand dollar car that has every imaginable gizmo pre-installed for their opulent enjoyment.

However, there are two high-tech accessories -- satellite radio and navigation systems -- that offer so much enjoyment and utility that they are quickly becoming must have items. Listen to this podcast to find out more!

Posted by Frank at 01:02 PM | Comments (0)

July 13, 2005

Car Buyer's Notebook Podcast: Thinking Certified Pre-Owned? Think About These Pointers First

If you're thinking of buying a CPO, or certified pre-owned vehicle, this podcast includes eight things to think about before you pay a premium on a used vehicle.

Like a lot of things, sometimes CPO is worth it, sometimes not -- it always comes down to -- "Let the Buyer Beware."

Posted by Frank at 07:37 AM | Comments (0)

July 12, 2005

Car Buyer's Notebook Podcast: In-Depth Look at Big 3 Discount Programs

Listen to this podcast to hear details about the great deals to be had with the Employee Discount programs from Ford, Chrysler and GM -- including the most overlooked fact. And don't put it off because the sales only last until August 1.

For convenience sake, here is a list of how to get to each company's website where the magic numbers are displayed:

Ford, Lincoln, Mercury

Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep

General Motors -- good for all brands, including Chevrolet, Cadillac, Buick, Pontiac, Hummer, GMC, Saturn and Saab.

Posted by Frank at 08:37 AM | Comments (0)

July 11, 2005

Car Buyer's Notebook Podcast: High Gas Prices, Low Used SUV Prices

This podcast covers how one analyst is reporting record high gas prices, while at the same time prices of used large SUVs are reportedly dropping.

Coincidence? Whether it's due to high gas prices, or a glut in the market, maybe now is the time to buy a big hauler.

Posted by Frank at 07:49 AM | Comments (0)

July 10, 2005

Car Buyer's Notebook Podcast: Free Credit Reports Available

If you're in the market to purchase a new vehicle, chances are you're going to finance -- and your credit rating is all important relative to the deal you get.

This podcast covers why getting your credit report is important, and how consumers in most of the country can not get a free report, by going to AnnualCreditReport.com.

Posted by Frank at 03:32 PM | Comments (0)

July 09, 2005

Car Buyer's Notebook Podcast: Scion Gets Podcasting

Scion has announced each one of their three models will have an optional stereo which you can play your iPod through. The sporty tC coupe already has the unit, the xA hatch and xB wagon get these options starting next week.

In this podcast we describe the new stereo option -- now you can listen to this Podcast in your new Scion! -- and also explore the details of the Scion phenomenon.

For more information click on these links:
xA Hatchback brochure
xA Hatchback specs
xB Wagon brochure
xB Wagon specs
tC Coupe brochure
tC Coupe specs

Posted by Frank at 11:07 AM | Comments (0)

July 08, 2005

Car Buyer's Notebook Podcast: Recalls, VW Troubles, GM's Boycott and a Radar Gun Donation

For this Friday's podcast, we have a selection of stories, including the latest recalls, an update on VW's troubles and GM's boycott of the LA Times -- plus a not so altruistic radar gun donation?

Posted by Frank at 08:20 AM | Comments (0)

July 07, 2005

Car Buyer's Notebook Podcast: Find Cheap Gas Online, Plus Iacocca's Back

AAA's Fuel Price Finder is back online -- listen to this podcast to find out how to use the nifty service.

Also, Lee Iacocca is back as Chrysler's pitchman, ending an estrangement with the company he saved from bankruptcy. Lee's going to revive his old tagline, "If you can find a better car, buy it," as a means to help Chrysler breakaway from the employee discount clutter.

Posted by Frank at 07:33 AM | Comments (0)

July 06, 2005

Car Buyer's Notebook Podcast: Everyone's an Employee -- of Ford, Chrysler and GM

Minutes after GM announced they were extending their Employee Discount plan, Ford jumped in, and now Chrysler has joined the pool party. You can listen to this podcast for the details.

There are some exclusions, of course, notably the hot cars, but the deals are as good as 25% off full sticker price for many models. It's going to be a hot summer for car sales.

Posted by Frank at 01:36 PM | Comments (0)

July 05, 2005

Car Buyer's Notebook Podcast: GM Extends Employee Discount Program Thru August 1

Well, that's pretty much the whole story, isn't it? After a whopping increase of 46.7% in one month, how could GM not extend the discount.

Now, we're going to have to sit here all day and monitor Ford and Chrysler's response...

Click to listen!

Posted by Frank at 11:35 AM | Comments (0)

Car Buyer's Notebook Podcast: Willie's Got Texans Driving on BioDiesel

This podcast is about BioDiesel, and Willie Nelson, and Texans and Truck Drivers. All in Caps. It only took the Wall St. Journal five months to pick up this story, which we covered in January.

Posted by Frank at 10:11 AM | Comments (0)

July 04, 2005

Audio Podcast: Hybrid Sales Report for June 2005

This podcast covers hybrid sales, which continue their strong trajectory, thanks to high gas prices, media attention and federal tax deductions. Toyota, of course, leads the field with their stable of three hybirds, including the Prius, which accounts for more than half of all hybrids sold in the United States.

Hat tip to Michael Millikin of Green Car Congress for help with the Ford Escape Hybrid stats.

Posted by Frank at 03:19 PM | Comments (0)

July 03, 2005

Audio Podcast: GM Deserves Some Props

GM's sales results for June were so massive they deserve a podcast all their own. The General's Employee Discount program got people in the showroom and driving off the lot, mostly in trucks where sales were up over 75%.

Posted by Frank at 11:05 AM | Comments (0)

July 01, 2005

Audio Podcast: GM to Have Big Sales Month, Honda Scores Two Big PR Events

Today is sales day and GM is expected to turn in huge numbers. Listen to the podcast to hear a slightly different take on why their sales are up.

Also, Honda had a great week, with two PR events touting their safety record -- and giving a California family a far, far better deal on a car than anyone got from GM!

Posted by Frank at 09:30 AM | Comments (0)

June 30, 2005

Audio Podcast: GM & Ford Win Big in J.D. Power's New Survey

J.D. Power's new study, on vehicle dependability, yields good information -- and some significant surprises -- for car buyers. Listen to the podcast for a breakdown, them check out the two Powerpoint slides mentioned in the show [see below].

Download J.D. Power Survey Slide #1
Download J.D. Power Survey Slide #2

Posted by Frank at 11:40 AM | Comments (0)

June 28, 2005

Audio Podcast: Is Leasing Right for You?

In this segment we speak with Tarry Shebasta, president of Leasecompare.com, and he details the situations where leasing a vehicle is a good financial option, for either business owners or individuals.

One of the things that surprises many people is how they can get a much better vehicle for their monthly payment with leasing versus purchase financing.

If you're in the market for a new vehicle, I encourage you to investigate all your options, including leasing. After listening to the show you can go to www.leasecompare.com and do some mock-up price quotes to see if leasing fits your portfolio.

Posted by Frank at 07:58 AM | Comments (0)

June 24, 2005

Audio Podcast: Singing the Praises of the GMC Envoy XL Denali

Sometimes you just gotta' have a big 'ol SUV -- and the GMC Denali is one fine, sure-footed luxurious ride. We took the seven-seater on a 750 mile roundtrip in bad weather and sometimes treacherous road conditions -- feeling safe and comfortable through rain, slush, mud and 400-foot drops.

Posted by Frank at 08:01 AM | Comments (0)

June 23, 2005

Audio Podcast: Hybrid Vehicles as Category Killers and Practical Investments

Hybrid technology is here and not only is it not going away, it's going to have to become the standard in autos because people are obviously willing to pay for them.

But do they make financial sense? Yes and no -- at the same time! -- make sure to listen to find out how!

Posted by Frank at 01:23 PM | Comments (1)

June 22, 2005

Audio Podcast: Goldberg Talks about Being an Automaniac for the History Channel

Bill Goldberg, former wrestling star and current host of Automaniac on the History Channel, gave us an interview about his new show -- and his personal relationship with Burt Reynolds.

Also included in this interview is a suggestion on what you should never call Goldberg -- at least not to his face. Unless you're Burt Reynolds.

For more information on the show, which airs every Wednesday night this summer at 10 EST, check out the website.

Posted by Frank at 11:21 AM | Comments (0)

June 21, 2005

Audio Podcast: Toyota Avalon's Interior is an Oasis of Serenity

The Toyota Avalon has been enjoying impressive sales since early this year -- all you have to do is sit inside the car and you'll understand why.

Click here to listen to the podcast directly on your computer, or add this URL to your "podcatching software" to automatically subscribe: http://carbuyersnotebook.libsyn.com/rss.

Posted by Frank at 11:03 AM | Comments (0)

June 02, 2005

Audio Podcast: May Auto Sales -- Everyone Takes the Pain

Sales were down 8% in May, and the pain was spread out pretty evenly among domestic and international nameplates -- regardless of the headlines you may have seen.

This post is related to my earlier, text-based rant, Lies, Damned Lies, Statistics, Lazy Journalists and PR Hocus-Pocus.

Click to listen, or paste this URL into your podcatching software to get the Car Buyer's Notebook daily podcast automatically: http://carbuyersnotebook.libsyn.com/rss.

Posted by Frank at 12:34 PM | Comments (0)

Listen to the Notebook Every Day! Check out the Podcast Archives!

If you are a new reader, check out our daily podcast -- it's a daily audio story, generally two to four minutes long, covering the auto news of the moment. The podcast archives can be found here.

They are in MP3 format, and can be listened to directly through the website, or by subscribing to the daily "feed" that is directly downloaded to your computer. To listen directly, click on the link provided in each story you see with that big giant ear on the right.

To subscribe to the show, you will need to download and install a software program known as a "podcatcher." I recommend iPodder, a small, simple program you can download through this link.

It's simple to use. Once the program is on your computer, you can subscribe to the Car Buyer's Notebook Podcast by entering this URL in the line under the "status" tab: http://carbuyersnotebook.libsyn.com/rss.

Then, under the "scheduler" tab, set the download time for either once daily, or every eight hours. The show will be automatically transferred to your computer -- without interrupting your work -- whenever the software activates.

After it's on your machine, you need a way to open it -- generally, most people use iTunes software, which you can get here. After that, you can either listen on your computer, or transfer it to an MP3 player to take on the road with you. This is how it got the name "podcasting" as the format took off after Apple grabbed the attention of the marketplace with their popular audio player, the iPod.

Posted by Frank at 05:55 AM | Comments (0)

June 01, 2005

Audio Podcast: Car Buyer's Bill of Rights Likely to Become Law in California

The amended legislation, crafted in concert with the car dealer's association, retains many consumer protection safeguards while ensuring dealers can make enough to stay in business.

The law was passed by the California legislature last year but was vetoed by Governor Schwarzengger. With the car dealers supporting this version, it's likely it will become law.

Click to listen, or paste this URL into your podcatching software to get the Car Buyer's Notebook daily podcast automatically: http://carbuyersnotebook.libsyn.com/rss.

Posted by Frank at 05:04 PM | Comments (0)

May 31, 2005

Audio Podcast: GM's New Incentive Plan Makes the Cobalt a Must Test Drive

GM is expected to announce a new discount program where all consumers will be able to take advantage of the company's employee discount -- this makes the fantastic -- and fun -- Chevy Cobalt even more of a must test drive than before.

The car is equipped with a 145-hp engine, perfectly sized for a compact, and has plenty of the features you're looking for in a smaller car.

Click here to listen, or paste this URL into your podcatching software to get the Car Buyer's Notebook daily podcast automatically: http://carbuyersnotebook.libsyn.com/rss

Posted by Frank at 07:34 AM | Comments (0)

May 27, 2005

Audio Podcast: Chrysler and Mercedes are Sponsoring Nationwide Consumer Test Drives

Both Chrysler and Mercedes are taking their vehicles on the road this summer to give consumers a chance to test drive them on controlled courses.

Chrysler is doing eight events in different cities, which will include letting people get into their 300C SRT8 and running it on a drag strip!

Mercedes is promoting their M-Class SUV at 37 different locations, in an event called the M-Class Road Rally, which offers drivers two different courses to have at it. I'm going to the event here in Washington tomorrow, so check back next week for the video we're shooting of the event! Click to listen so you can sign up!

To subscribe to the Car Buyer's Notebook podcast, paste this URL into your podcatching software: http://carbuyersnotebook.libsyn.com/rss. Thanks for listening!

Posted by Frank at 02:49 PM | Comments (0)

May 26, 2005

Audio Podcast: AAA Can't Avoid a Memorial Weekend Crash

The AAA motoring club's new online gas price service got crushed Thursday by thousands of people looking for cheap fuel -- fortunately we have a couple websites for you to check out until AAA sorts out the wreckage.

Click here to listen, or paste this URL in your podcast software to get the Car Buyer's Notebook pod feed daily: http://carbuyersnotebook.libsyn.com/rss

Posted by Frank at 08:53 PM | Comments (0)

May 25, 2005

Audio Podcast: A Hybrid Podcast About Hybrids

In today's edition, we cover six news stories concerning hybrid vehicles and the sales, attention and incentives they are receiving. Included is news from Toyota, Honda, Porsche and Volkswagen, including sales plans, milestones and in VW's case, no decision as to what they're doing with their hybrid lines.

Click here to listen, or paste this URL in your podcast software to get the Car Buyer's Notebook pod feed daily: http://carbuyersnotebook.libsyn.com/rss

Posted by Frank at 01:30 PM | Comments (0)

May 24, 2005

Podcast Audio: High Tech End to Car Chases

A California company is working on a roof-top mounted transmitter capable of stopping cars by messing with their onboard processors. This would bring vehicles to a safe halt without endangering police, pedestrians or guard rails.

Of course, the perp will probably still jump out of the car so he can get shot.

What are LA-based TV stations going to do? Will they sue for violation of their first amendment rights to scare the public?

Click here to listen, or paste this URL in your podcast software to get the Car Buyer's Notebook pod feed daily: http://carbuyersnotebook.libsyn.com/rss

Posted by Frank at 02:22 PM | Comments (0)

May 23, 2005

Audio Podcast: Hyundai's New Alabama Plant

The opening of Hyundai's Montgomery Alabama plant was a huge event and the tour of the fully automated factory was an impressive site. Also, Hyundai customers dog Stern!

Click here to listen, or subscribe by pasting this URL in your podcasting software: http://carbuyersnotebook.libsyn.com/rss.

Posted by Frank at 11:41 PM | Comments (0)

May 17, 2005

Podcast Audio: Toyota Looking into Prius Stalling Problems

Toyota has received more than a dozen complaints that it's popular Prius hybrid is stalling out at high speeds ... also, an announcement is due today about Toyota's Kentucky plant ... and GM scores higher on a customer satisfaction survey than Lexus, Scion or Toyota!

Listen here!

Posted by Frank at 07:57 AM | Comments (0)

May 16, 2005

Podcast Audio: Breaking News! Win the Oscar Mayer Wienermobile for a Day!

That's right, boys and girls, you can win the use of the Oscar Mayer Wienermobile for a day -- along with up to $5,000 in cash.

Listen to the podcast for details -- all the way to the end for a surprise!

Posted by Frank at 03:11 PM | Comments (0)

Podcast Audio: Protectionism is a Thing of the Past

While some newspapers and Japanese parties are speaking about protectionism, they are misreading the climate change that has taken place in this country. Toyota and other "import" cars now make as much as two-thirds of their vehicles here, with American workers.

Listen to the Car Buyer's Notebook daily podcast by clicking here.

Add the podcast to your syndication software by copying and pasting this link: http://carbuyersnotebook.libsyn.com/rss

Posted by Frank at 10:16 AM | Comments (0)

May 13, 2005

Podcast Audio: EPA Considers Changing MPG Calculations

The EPA is considering changing the way it estimates gas mileage to more accurately reflect real world mileage conditions. We reference a previouos Notebook story in this audio, about AAA backing a legislative approach to the same dilemma.

You can listen to the podcast by clicking here, or by adding this URL to your syndication software client: http://carbuyersnotebook.libsyn.com/rss.

Sites of interest:
GreenCarCongress.com -- best site for enviro/tech vehicle news.
GreenHybrid.com -- includes real world hybrid mpg database.
FuelGaugeReport.com -- current gas prices.
EPA Mileage Guide -- MPG estimates in PDF form.

Posted by Frank at 10:03 AM | Comments (0)

May 12, 2005

Podcast Audio: Part 2 of How to Buy a Car with Philip Reed of Edmunds.com

In this second installment of how to buy a car, Mr. Reed discusses the importance of pre-arranging financing before you go to the dealership.

You can listed a couple different ways:

By direct download, you can listen using the player in the dashboard above, or by clicking on this audio file.

You can set up your podasting software to automatically receive the boradcast, by adding this URL: http://carbuyersnotebook.libsyn.com/rss

Or, you can make a point of visiting the offsite archive page where the Car Buyer's Notebook podcast is stored: http://carbuyersnotebook.libsyn.com/

Posted by Frank at 12:42 PM | Comments (0)

May 11, 2005

Podcast Audio: How to Buy a Car With Philip Reed of Edmunds.com

The Car Buyer's Notebook Podcast is finally here! Now you can listen to a daily podcast dedicated to "exploring the automotive life!"

You can listed a couple different ways:

By direct download, you can listen using the player in the dashboard above, or by clicking on this audio file.

You can set up your podasting software to automatically receive the boradcast, by adding this URL: http://carbuyersnotebook.libsyn.com/rss

Or, you can make a point of visiting the offsite archive page where the Car Buyer's Notebook podcast is stored: http://carbuyersnotebook.libsyn.com/

Posted by Frank at 12:30 PM | Comments (0)