Toyota Incentives... Will You Take Advantage?

We've all heard about the problems facing Toyota. The investigations, the recalls... and now the damage control. I was browsing the website Walletpop.com and came across this article about the company's plan to increase incentives to lure in customers. The site says Toyota is talking to U.S. dealers about some different options, including adding $1,000 to the current $1,000 cash incentive for returning customers. Walletpop says other options could include a free maintenance program (oil changes, regular checkups), and a new warranty program.

It's all in an effort to boost sales, which dropped to their lowest levels in more than a decade following safety recalls. My question is... are these sorts of offers enough to make you want to buy a Toyota? Or do you fear that once you get the car, the recalls will continue? Comment here or email eeddington@wsiltv.com

"3 Ways to Save" on News 3 This Morning

Hi everyone! On News 3 This Morning (weekdays, 5:30- 7:00 a.m.), we're bringing back a feature known as "3 Ways to Save". Each week we'll tackle a new topic, offering several ways to save money. Last week we touched on a a few ways you can have a more affordable Valentine's Day. This week, we'll tell you how to save money on pet-related expenses. Our advice comes from consumer experts, and we share your tips as well! Just log on to our Cover it Live chat from 5:30 to 7:00, or stop by our morning show Facebook page or Twitter to drop us a line. Also feel free to email eeddington@wsiltv.com

Toyota Update: Prius Problems

photo courtesy toyota.com

More troubles for Toyota... the Associated Press says this time, it's the Prius. There have been more than 100 complaints in the U.S. and Japan about brake problems with new models of the gas-electric hybrid. Two involved crashes that resulted in injuries. Prius is NOT part of the recall of several other top-selling Toyota vehicles that have a gas pedal problem. Toyota is investigating. Any Prius problems in southern Illinois? Please share! Email eeddington@wsiltv.com or comment on this blog.

Unemployment... does it impact you?

Was anyone else a little surprised when they saw the latest unemployment figures today on News 3 This Morning? The jobless rate continues to grow, and 12 southern Illinois counties have double-digit unemployment rates. Franklin County has more than 14%. I'd like to know how this is impacting your life. Here are a few questions I'd be interested to hear your responses to, and if you'd rather not comment here, you can always email eeddington@wsiltv.com.

• Have you recently been, or are you still unemployed?
• If you've recently gotten a job, what resources did you use to get info about it?
• If you're still unemployed, what resources haven't been working for you in terms of your search?
• Do you have any advice for current job-seekers?

Creating a Password That's Secure

We've all been in this situation- you've stumbled upon a great new website, but to really take advantage of what it has to offer, you have to come up with a password. Well, according to Consumer Reports, we need to be a little more creative. The site's Electronics Blog says creating a stronger password will make everything from your Facebook page to your online bank account more secure. Here are some tips for creating a hacker-proof password from Dean Gallea with Consumer Reports:

• Include caps, numbers and/or symbols.


• Make it at least 6 characters.


• Don't use your name, street, or phone number.


• Don't use common names or words.


• Remember it. Come up with a useful phrase that can help you.

Source

Toyota Recall Latest: Pedal Fix Plans

photo courtesy USAToday.com

Good Monday morning everyone! Just wanted to pass along the latest where Toyota is concerned... according to the Associated Press news wire, Toyota is telling dealers that they should get parts to fix sticky gas pedals later this week. BUT- the 4.2 million customers affected may have to wait awhile for repairs. An email Toyota sent to dealers early Monday says they'll get shims to repair springs in the gas pedal systems that have been weakened. Those repairs will have to wait until technicians are trained.

Click here to find the latest Toyota information.

Do you own a Toyota? How do you feel the company has done in terms of keeping customers informed? Share your thoughts in the comments section, or email eeddington@wsiltv.com

Cosmetics Settlement

This story aired today during our News Three This Morning newscast. Thought it was worth passing along to any SI Consumer News blog readers...

On Tuesday, January 20th, several major retailers will be giving away $175 million worth of free high-end cosmetics as part of a class action settlement. It alleges stores planned to fix prices, therefore department stores such as Macy's and Dillard's will distribute free cosmetics next Tuesday on a first come, first serve basis.

The deal allows for ONE free product from one of the manufacturer defendants involved. A few of those include Estee Lauder, Lancome, and Clinique. The offer is available to shoppers who bought certain cosmetics between Spring of '94 and the summer of 2003. You don't have to show a receipt, but you will have to sign a form showing you've received only one free product.

For full details on this settlement, visit this link:
http://www.cosmeticssettlement.com