Government Motors Pushing Toyota Recall?

During my 35 of being in the Auto Industry I have never seen a recall get this much attention with the execption of the Ford Firestone Tire recall. It's all you hear about when you read the paper, watch the news, listen to the radio or hear what's coming out of the politicians's mouths. It makes one wonder who started this fire and who continues to pour gas on it. The comments that Ray Lahood made yesterday telling Toyota drivers to stop driving there vehicles immediately only adds more fuel to this recall conspiracy theory.

Additionally, it's interesting how GM and Chrysler already had ads ready to go once this recall was announced telling Toyota owners they could trade in their recalled Toyota's and get $1,000 extra trade-in incentives plus zero % financing. Was this good timing or a chance to gain marketshare based on previous knowledge or pressure?

The problem with this strategy is that Toyota owners worship this brand. I cannot imagine that very many Camry owners will be lining up to trade-in their cars for a Chevy Malibu. I often purchase Chevy Prizm's because they are built by Toyota for Chevy and are identical to a Toyota Corolla. Yet, trying to convince a Toyota Brand lover to purchase the Prizm over the Corolla is like trying to get a Liberal to vote for a Tax Cut. It's not going to happen. So when I listen to these "so called" experts on TV spouting off about how this is a great opportunity for American Car Companies to gain marketshare, I just laugh out loud to myself. It's not going to happen.

This is just a small blip in the road for the Toyota Brand, which will regain it's place atop the Car Chain again in a matter of months!