Author: Lawrence K. Jacobs

Cyberattack on CDK Global Causes Havoc at Dealerships Have you recently faced difficulties purchasing a car at a dealership or scheduling car servicing? If so, the root cause might be a significant cyberattack on CDK Global, a pivotal software provider for numerous dealerships and service centers across North America. The cyber incident, which occurred on June 19, has left dealerships grappling with operational disruptions and a return to pre-digital age practices. What is CDK Global? CDK Global, headquartered in Hoffman Estates, Illinois, operates in over 15,000 retail locations across North America. The company provides a dealer management system (DMS) that…

America’s Love Affair with Pickup Trucks: The Best Used Trucks to Buy in 2024 American car buyers have a long-standing love affair with pickup trucks. Dominating the top of sales charts for decades, the Ford F-Series has retained its title as the best-selling vehicle in America for 42 consecutive years and the best-selling truck for 47. Trailing Ford closely are formidable contenders like the Chevy Silverado, Ram, and GMC Sierra. Given this fierce loyalty to trucks, it’s unsurprising that the best-selling used vehicle in America is also a pickup. But which used trucks should savvy buyers consider in 2024? iSeeCars,…

Cyberattack Cripples Auto Dealership Operations Across North America A hand-written contract for a new car purchase, prolonged wait times for essential replacement parts, and indefinite delivery dates for eagerly anticipated vehicles – these are just a few of the consequences that auto dealerships and their customers from the United States to Canada are grappling with in the wake of a severe cyberattack on CDK Global. CDK Global, a software provider instrumental to around 15,000 dealerships, has been reeling since June 19 when the first attack began. This initial assault has taken an enormous toll on an industry that amassed over…

Decoding the World’s Most Expensive Cars Naming one single car as the most expensive in the world isn’t as straightforward as it may seem. The landscape of automotive luxury is highly nuanced, necessitating a breakdown into several categories to get a clear answer. In this article, we will explore the realm of both the most expensive new cars and the priciest collector cars ever sold. By the end, you’ll have a comprehensive understanding of the world’s most valuable automobiles. Perspective on Car Prices Before delving into astronomical figures, let’s provide some context. As of the past year, the average transaction…

2025 Cadillac XT4: A Comprehensive Review The 2025 Cadillac XT4 is a sleek luxury crossover that expertly straddles the line between subcompact and compact segments. It offers generous passenger space while maintaining exceptional maneuverability, essential for navigating tight urban environments. Carrying over from last year’s model, the 2025 XT4 features a refreshed exterior and a striking new 33-inch curved LED screen. This mid-size SUV might be just the right fit for some, boasting appealing aesthetics, ample rear legroom, advanced technology, and a competitive price point within the luxury market. Pros: Cutting-edge infotainment and safety technology Comfortable mid-size design Spacious rear…

FYI: When purchasing a new vehicle, it’s important to consider both the car and the financing options available, as different dealerships offer varying levels of service and financial flexibility. Decoding Buy Here, Pay Here Car Dealerships When it comes to buying a car, the choices can be overwhelming. From selecting the right vehicle to choosing a lender and settling on a payment method, the process is multifaceted. While big franchised car dealerships and traditional used car lots are common go-tos, another option exists that might not be on your radar: the ‘buy here, pay here’ dealerships. These often-overlooked options come…

Trailblazing Ahead: The 2025 Chevrolet Trailblazer Pros and Cons Pros: Sophisticated interior, robust standard infotainment system, affordable pricing, spacious rear legroom. Cons: Lacks in acceleration, disappointing CVT, uninspiring driving dynamics. Better value found in the Chevy Trax. Introduction Entering its second year after a significant refresh, the 2025 Chevrolet Trailblazer maintains the updates from the 2024 model while introducing a key addition: flex-fuel capability for its 1.2-liter engine. As a compelling subcompact SUV, the Trailblazer holds its own against rivals like the Subaru Crosstrek, Kia Seltos, VW Taos, and the pricier Ford Bronco Sport. Interestingly, its toughest competition comes from…

FYI: Whether you’re a first-time used car buyer or a seasoned pro, these essential questions can help you avoid costly mistakes and drive off in a reliable vehicle. Key Questions to Ask When Buying a Used Car in 2024 Many buyers mistakenly believe that if they end up with a misrepresented or defective used car, the lemon law or a cooling-off period will automatically provide a safety net. The specifics of these laws vary by state, so it’s crucial to ask the right questions before purchasing a used car to avoid any unpleasant surprises. To assist you, we consulted Sergey…

Introducing the 2024 Hyundai Santa Fe: A New Era of Design and Functionality Pros: Sophisticated and eye-catching design Impressive interior space Packed with cutting-edge technology Cons: Occasionally sluggish transmission Lacks sportiness Limited cargo space with third row in use The 2024 Hyundai Santa Fe breaks new ground with a stunning and unique design that has significantly elevated its appeal. While earlier models of the Santa Fe were practical but somewhat unremarkable, this latest edition showcases Hyundai’s innovative design department at its finest. Drawing some aesthetic cues from past Land Rovers, the Santa Fe’s boxy silhouette, large windows, and pixelated lights…

FYI: A recent survey by Experian reveals that 80% of new cars and 38% of used cars are purchased using loans, emphasizing the importance of understanding auto financing. When purchasing a vehicle, which is often the second most significant investment after a home, knowing how to navigate the car loan process is crucial. This guide aims to demystify car financing, providing essential tips to help you make an informed decision. 1. Understand Your Credit Score Your credit score significantly impacts the terms of your car loan. It influences not only the interest rate but also the amount you can borrow…