Ken Fichtner

Greetings from Montana.

I can’t wait for the plant to hit full production and for the constraints to be lifted. As a dealer I have never been so frustrated trying to get my fair share of the total allocations and then to be able to have order requests placed within those allocations.

Believe it or not, it’s not fun being in the middle between disgruntled customers and the corporate giant!

I have always tried to assist my customers in getting the exact car of their dreams but sometimes I think it would be easier to just order Corvettes the way I want, to let them arrive, and then sell what we have.

Frustration…..

Now that I have that off of my chest, here’s the latest news:

This week’s news includes:
* Latest Production Constraints – UPDATED 3/24/05
* Final 2005 Production Date
* 2006 Corvette Colors Orderable May 19, 2005
* Initial 2006 Coupe/Convertible Production Date
* Initial 2006 Z06 Production Date
* Preliminary 2006 Order Information – NEW 3/11/05
* 2002 thru 2005 Erratic Fuel Reading – NEW 3/25/05

Don’t forget to read these WEEKLY newsletters:

GM Protection Plan News and FAQ:
Dennis Fichtner will be publishing a weekly newsletter with details on the GM Protection Plan. He will include a new “frequently asked question” each week. Look for this great addition soon. Finally, please remember that you won’t pay sales tax on a plan purchased from us.

Parts, Accessories and Service News:
Robert Wendorff will be publishing a weekly newsletter with details on all of our parts and accessories offerings. Watch for a weekly special as well as each week he will pick one item to sell at a deep discount. Note that we aren’t selling parts at a loss and then adding an exhorbidant amount for shipping and handling. Further, note that there isn’t any sales tax in Montana thus saving you more!

Fichtner Chevrolet personnel directory:

GM Protection Plans and New Car/Truck Sales:
Dennis Fichtner, Business Manager
gmpp@fichtnerchevrolet.com
406-628-4618 Ext 105

Corvette Sales and Advice
Ken Fichtner, General Manager
kenfichtner@fichtnerchevrolet.com
406-628-4618 Ext 103

Parts:
Robert Wendorff, Parts Manager
Parts@FichtnerChevrolet.com
406-628-4121

John Thomas Dorsey, Parts Specialist
Parts@FichtnerChevrolet.com
406-628-4121

Service:
John Ingham, Service Manager
Service@FichtnerChevrolet.com
406-628-4618

Office Administration/Accounting:
Kayla Eastlick
KEastlick@FichtnerChevrolet.com
406-628-4618

Thanks for taking the time to read my weekly newsletter and thanks for your business!

Index of topics:

Weekly Newsletter – Contents

1) 2005 Coupe/Convertible Buildout Information & Final Buildout Date, 2006 Startup Date
2) 2006 Corvette Colors Offered for 2005, Orderable May 19, 2005
3) Corvette Price Increase
4) 2006 Corvette Z06 FAQ
5) 2006 Corvette Preliminary Order Information
6) Corvette Production Issues – Constraints, Convertibles
7) Corvette Pricing Revealed
8) GM Rebates/Special Finance Rates
9) GM Employee & Supplier Eligibility for 2005
10) Weekly Constraint/Production News
11) 2002 thru 2005 Erratic Fuel Reading – NEW 3/25/05

1) 2005 Coupe/Convertible Buildout Information & Final Buildout Date, 2006 Startup Date

2005 Model Year Corvette Coupe/Convertible Final Production Date

Dealers will be able to consense (agree to accept allocations) for their buildout 2005 Corvette Coupes/Convertibles in July, 2005.

Allocations available during the July consensus will be available for production August 22 thru September 8, 2005.

The final date of 2005 production is September 8, 2005.

Dealers will be able to view their final, actual allocations on July 27, 2005.

Dealers will see their first allocations (if they have them available) within which they can approve orders on July 28, 2005.

2006 Model Year Corvette Coupe/Convertible Startup Production Date

Dealers will be able to consense (agree to accept allocations) for 2006 Corvette Coupes/Convertibles in July, 2005.

Dealers will be able to view their final, actual allocations on July 27, 2005.

Dealers will see their first allocations (if they have them available) within which they can approve orders on July 28, 2005.

Allocations available during the July consensus will be available for production September 9 thru October 2, 2005.

2006 Model Year Corvette Z06 Startup Production Date

Dealers will be able to consense (agree to accept allocations) for 2006 Corvette Coupes/Convertibles in May, 2005.

Dealers will be able to view their final, actual allocations on May 18, 2005.

Dealers will see their first allocations (if they have them available) within which they can approve orders on June 16, 2005.

Allocations available during the July consensus will be available for production July 25, 2005 thru July 31, 2005.


FOR A BETTER UNDERSTANDING OF THE ALLOCATION PROCESS, PLEASE READ SECTION 10 OF THIS NEWSLETTER.


2) Early Introduction of 2006 Corvette Paint Colors

To: All Corvette Dealers

From: VSSM Order Fulfillment

Re: Early Introduction of 2006 Corvette Paint Colors

Date: March 17, 2005


As you are undoubtedly aware, Millennium Yellow (79U) and Magnetic Red (86U) exterior paints have been discontinued for the 2005 model year. Both colors will be replaced with paints originally planned for introduction on the 2006 Corvette. The following information is being provided to assist you in the determination of a course of action regarding any remaining 2005 unpreferenced orders:

Millennium Yellow will be replaced with Velocity Yellow (45U). Velocity Yellow is slightly lighter in shade than Millennium Yellow in part due to the fact that Velocity Yellow is a premium "tint coat" finish. As with other tint coats, it also gains a "depth" not seen with standard paint finishes. Velocity Yellow will be an additional cost selection.

The replacement for Magnetic Red will be Monterey Red (80U). Like Magnetic Red Monterey Red is a metallic finish that, in this case, is slightly darker than Magnetic Red. Monterey Red contains deep metallic flake and is similar, although several shades lighter, than the 2003 Anniversary Red. Monterey Red is also an additional cost selection.

The new colors will be accessible within the VOM ordering screen on Thursday, May 19, 2005. This should allow you to place new orders or to change existing orders to one of these new colors. Production of these new paints is anticipated to begin in late June, however, both will require a limited constraint period before they become freely available.


3) Corvette Price Increase

Chevrolet Interim Price Increase Effective 2/4/05

Chevrolet will announce revised 2005 model year Suggested Retail prices effective with vehicles produced on or after February 4, 2005. The revised Suggested Retail prices will affect the Corvette, Equinox and Express. Dealer invoice amounts will increase accordingly. Dealer discounts remain unchanged.

Dealer price schedules will be available in GM DealerWorld under Sales &/Or F&I Tabs effective February 4, 2005.

All qualified bona fide sold retail orders entered in VOMS on or before February 3, 2005 and delivered to the original customer after that date will be price protected. These units will be invoiced at prices in effect at the date of production; however, the dealer open account will automatically be credited for the price increase once the unit has been delivered.

Generally, fleet orders are invoice price protected (i.e., bid center FBC order types, VQ orders). All other fleet orders will be price protected according to the bona fide sold retail price protection policy above. Refer to the price protection effective date on the invoice.

This pricing information is intended for use by authorized Chevrolet dealers and should not be disclosed to unauthorized persons. Chevrolet reserves the right to discontinue or change prices at any time, without written notice. All rights reserved. General Motors proprietary information to be used by authorized Chevrolet dealers, fleet operations, bailment operations, and General Motors wholesale personnel for Chevrolet vehicles. This information shall not be reproduced for or disclosed to third parties without the expressed written permission of General Motors Corporation.

It is anticipated that this pricing information will be reflected in GM AutoBook on GM Access beginning February 11, 2005.

Upon examination, the Z51 Package and the URB Navigation Radio were each increased in price by $200.

4) 2006 Corvette Z06 FAQ

2006 Corvette Z06 FAQ

Please find below answers to several of the questions we have received relative to the new Z06 Corvette followed by answers to questions that we can answer!

When will the Z06 be unveiled?
Z06 will be unveiled January 10, 2005, at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit.

When will the Z06 be available in dealerships?
The Z06 model will be available in the fourth quarter of 2005 as a 2006 model.

When is the start of production for the Z06?
Production is scheduled to begin in the third quarter of 2005.

Where will the Z06 be produced?
All Corvette models are produced in Bowling Green, KY.

How many units will be manufactured?
We have the capacity to produce around 35,000 Corvettes annually for the global markets, with 32,000 - 33,000 of them for the North American market. Z06 is expected to be 15% - 20% of the total build.

How will dealer allocation and units per dealer be determined?
Dealer allocation will be communicated in the first quarter of 2005. Please stay tuned to Chevy Launch for further details.

What additional training is required for a Certified Corvette Dealer to sell Z06?
Certification requirements will be communicated in the first quarter of 2005. Please stay tuned to Chevy Launch for further details.

What is the estimated price range for the 2006 Z06 Corvette?
The Z06 will be priced competitively in the High Sport Segment and will continue Corvette's tradition of high performance per dollar. Please stay tuned to Chevy Launch for further details.

Who is the target customer for the Z06?
As always, sports car enthusiasts of all ages. Z06 customers place a higher value on performance (sport over luxury) than the typical Corvette owner.

How large is the engine?
Specifications will be available in the first quarter of 2005. The engine will be a Gen IV V8.

What is the horsepower for the Z06?
Horsepower will be increased from today's LS6 405hp. Specifications will be available in the first quarter of 2005. Please stay tuned to Chevy Launch for further details.

What is the level of change on the Z06 versus 2005 Corvette?
This information will be available in the first quarter 2005. Please stay tuned to Chevy Launch for further details.

Does the Z06 have a removable roof?
This information will be available in the first quarter 2005. Please stay tuned to Chevy Launch for further details.
When will Fichtner Chevrolet know how many Z06s they can order?
Dealer allocation will be communicated in the first quarter of 2005. Once we receive this information we will be able to communicate such to those on our waiting list.

When will Fichtner Chevrolet begin to accept Z06 orders?
With production beginning in the third quarter I would assume that GM will open the order system to accepting 2006 orders sometime late in the 2nd quarter (Mid May to Mid June estimated). We will only commit to and accept orders in a quantity equal to what Chevrolet communicates to us as being available. We will not make promises we cannot keep!

How will Fichtner Chevrolet price units?
We will price the new Z06 at a price equal to MSRP plus $0 for dealer prep, handling, documentation, market adjustment, etc.

How many requests for Z06s has Fichtner Chevrolet received?
To date (1/11/05) I have made promises to 5 customers whose requests were made first. These requests were made in writing up to 2 years ago. We have nearly 500 requests at present. When we know the pricing and the quantity that we will have available to sell, we will email everyone. It is possible that one or more of the first 5 on our list will not place an order when it is time to place an order. At that time we will offer any unsold allocations to customers in the order in which their written requests were made to us.

5) 2006 Corvette Preliminary Order Information

PRELIMINARY ONLY!

2006 Corvette Coupe/Convertible

Packages:
1LT LT Option Package 1
2LT LT Option Package 2
3LT LT Option Package 3

Options:
MX0 Automatic Transmission
MN6 6 Speed Manual Transmission
C2L Dual Removable Roof Package
CC3 Transparent Roof Panel
F55 Magnetic Selective Ride Control
QG7 High Polished Wheels
UE1 OnStar Communications
VK3 Front License Plate Bracket
Z51 Performance Package
CM7 Power Top
U3U Navigation System

Colors:
10U Arctic White
19U LeMans Blue Metallic
41U Black
45U Velocity Yellow
67U Machine Silver Metallic
71U Daytona Sunset Orange Metallic
74U Victory Red
80U Monterey Red

Interior Colors:
023 Red Leather
193 Ebony Leather
313 Cashmere Leather
843 Titanium Leather

Convertible Top Colors:
29T Storm Gray
35T Beige
37T Titanium
41T Black

DEALERS MAY BEGIN SUBMITTING ORDER REQUESTS ON 6/27/05

2006 Corvette Z06 Coupe

Packages:
1LZ LZ Option Package 1
2LZ LZ Option Package 2

Options:
MN6 6 Speed Manual Transmission
QL9 High Polished Wheels
VK3 Front License Plate Bracket

Colors:
19U LeMans Blue Metallic
41U Black
45U Velocity Yellow
67U Machine Silver Metallic
71U Daytona Sunset Orange Metallic
74U Victory Red

Interior Colors:
023 Red Leather
193 Ebony Leather
843 Titanium Leather

DEALERS MAY BEGIN SUBMITTING ORDER REQUESTS ON 5/23/05

6) Corvette Production Issues – Constraints, Convertibles

To: Chevrolet Dealers

The following is a status on Corvette constraints and projected resolution (subject to change):

Corvette Convertibles and Power Top Ramp-Up: Weekly, we continue to ramp-up convertible and power top production. Convertibles and the power top option are scheduled to be at ramp-up by March 21, 2005.

Corvette Convertible Beige and Gray Tops Production: When tops are in the down position, the structural force on the fabric causes wrinkles which causes the light color tops to appear dirty, even though they are not. There is a fix for this condition; however it requires some new tooling which will not be in place until approximately mid-June. Therefore, until the condition is corrected, the beige and gray top color choices will be removed from the order guide. Orders with either beige or gray tops that have already been preferenced will be returned to the "placed" tab in VOM so that you may change color and trim choices as necessary to best satisfy your needs yet still allow the car to be produced. All top colors must be changed to black. We apologize for the inconvenience caused by removing these color choices but they will remain unavailable until we are assured that the lighter top colors meet our standards.

Corvette Coupe 1SX Package Production: The current manual passenger side seat track is no longer available. There is a new manual seat track that should be available sometime in April. Once again, we apologize for having to remove this option until the new seat track is available.

QG7 Polished Wheels: Demand for the polished wheel option continues to exceed all expectation. Our wheel supplier is currently working at maximum capacity, including overtime, to meet demand. At the same time, we have been working diligently to add additional machinery and improved processes to increase polished wheel output. We hope to see the result of these improvements shortly. In the interim we would like to remind you of the availability of the new QX1 Competition Gray wheel which presents an additional way that your customers can personalize their Corvette. The QX1 wheel is not constrained.

Z51 Sport Suspension Package (Z51): This option package will be constrained due to CAFE requirements. This constraint will be high over the next several weeks as we work through a backlog of orders, but should eventually improve to around 50% of total Corvette production.

7) Corvette Pricing Revealed

I have read a number of posts with questions relative to the pricing of a new Corvette. Often times there have been answers posted and for the most part the answers have been incorrect.

In an attempt to clear up a few misunderstandings I have prepared an analysis for your information. I am in no way saying that a dealer should sell you a car at any specific price nor am I saying that a dealer is required to offer GM Supplier or GM Employee pricing. This post is for information only.

Example:
2004 Chevrolet Corvette Coupe
Preferred Equipment Package 1SB
6 Speed Transmission
Sound System with Navigation
Polished Aluminum Wheels
Z51 Performance Handling Package
Destination Charge

MSRP = $53,060.00

Dealer Invoice = $46,921.85
(assuming dealer participates in the GM advertising program at 1%)

Net Dealer Cost = $45,354.05

The difference between retail and dealer invoice is $6138.15.

The difference between invoice and net cost is $1567.80, the 3% holdback paid the dealership.

Dealerships typically won’t sell a car below the dealer invoice as the holdback is an amount used by the dealership for overhead expenses including but not limited to floor plan interest, insurance, etc.

DEALERS ARE NOT PAID A VOLUME BONUS BASED UPON WHAT THEY SELL AS SOME FOLKS HAVE POSTED!!!

Dealerships are businesses, owned by folks who need to make a profit to stay in business. There are many other expenses to pay. If you are employed personally or if you own a business I doubt that you will work without receiving a paycheck.

Finally, if a dealer is willing to sell a new Corvette equipped per the example to a GM Supplier or GM Employee, here are those prices:

GM Supplier = $46,927.24
(GM rebates the dealer $891. So with a invoice of $46,921.85, the dealer makes $896.39 plus the holdback)

GM Employee = $44,906.45
(GM rebates the dealer $2613. So with a invoice of $46,921.85, the dealer makes $597.60 plus the holdback)

8) GM Rebates/Special Finance Rates

Summary of Incentives

Western Region. If residing outside of the Region, the incentives may vary.

2005 CHEVROLETS

2005 Model Year (05-31A-5/CWE) 2/11/05 THRU 3/31/05

Option 1
Model Rebate or APR 36/48/60/72
Aveo $750 0.0/1.9/2.9/3.9
Cavalier W/O 1SV $3000 0.0/0.0/0.0/1.9
Cavalier 1SV $0 5.9/5.9/5.9
Cobalt W/O SS $1000 0.0/1.0/2.0/3.0
Cobalt SS $0 5.9/5.9/5.9
Malibu (ALL) $2000 0.0/1.9/2.9/3.9
Impala (ALL) $2500 0.0/1.9/2.9/3.9
Monte Carlo $2500 0.0/1.9/2.9/3.9
Corvette $0 5.9/5.9/5.9
SSR $0 5.9/5.9/5.9
Colorado (ALL) $2000 0.0/1.9/2.9/4.9
Silverado 15 $2000 0.0/1.9/2.9/4.9
Silverado 25/35 W/O LLY $3000 0.0/1.9/2.9/4.9
Silveraro LLY $1000 0.0/2.9/3.9/4.9
C4500 Kodiak $2000 0.0/2.9/3.9
Avalanche $2500 0.0/1.9/2.9/4.9
Equinox $1000 0.0/2.9/3.9/4.9
Blazer $3500 0.0/0.0/0.0/1.9
Trailblazer (ALL) $2000 0.0/1.9/2.9/4.9
Tahoe $3000 0.0/1.9/2.9/4.9
Suburban $3000 0.0/1.9/2.9/4.9
Venture $3500 0.0/0.0/0.0/1.9
Uplander $1500 0.0/2.9/3.9/4.9
Astro $3000 0.0/0.0/0.0/1.9
Express $1500 0.0/2.9/3.9/4.9
CDR Code = CWE

OR

Option 2
Model Rebate and APR 36/48/60
Aveo $500 5.9/5.9/5.9/5.9
Cavalier W/O 1SV $1500 0.0/2.9/3.9/4.9
Malibu (ALL) $500 0.0/2.9/3.9/4.9
Impala (ALL) $500 0.0/2.9/3.9/4.9
Monte Carlo $500 0.0/2.9/3.9/4.9
Colorado (ALL) $500 0.0/2.9/3.9/4.9
Avalanche $500 0.0/2.9/3.9/4.9
Blazer $2000 0.0/2.9/3.9/4.9
Trailblazer (ALL) $500 0.0/2.9/3.9/4.9
Tahoe $500 0.0/2.9/3.9/4.9
Suburban $500 0.0/2.9/3.9/4.9
Venture $2000 0.0/2.9/3.9/4.9
Astro $1500 0.0/2.9/3.9/4.9
CDR Code = blank

05-31AAF GENERAL MOTORS RETAIL CONSUMER GMAC APR INCENTIVE

GENERAL MOTORS IS ANNOUNCING A RETAIL CONSUMER ALTERNATE GMAC APR
INCENTIVE PROGRAM THAT IS AVAILABLE ON SELECT ELIGIBLE NEW AND
UNUSED MODELS LISTED BELOW.

PROGRAM DETAILS:
THIS RETAIL CONSUMER GMAC APR INCENTIVE PROGRAM IS ONLY AVAILABLE
ON DELIVERIES TO RESIDENTS IN THE WESTERN REGION ONLY.

- TO DETERMINE CUSTOMER ELIGIBILITY, UTILIZE THE STATE/COUNTY/DMA
GEOGRAPHIC BOUNDARIES LISTED IN TEMPLATES 05-H AND 05-I (ADMIN.
MESSAGE NUMBERS BAI20040619 AND BAI20040620). THESE TEMPLATES
WERE SENT VIA GM MESSENGER TO ALL GENERAL MOTORS DEALERS ON
SEPTEMBER 27, 2004.

IMPORTANT PROGRAM NOTES:
- THIS PROGRAM IS NOT COMPATIBLE WITH ANY BONUS CASH OR
GMAC/NUVELL FINANCING ALLOWANCE PROGRAMS.
- CONSUMERS MAY CHOOSE AVAILABLE REGIONAL CONSUMER CASH AMOUNTS
OR TAKE THE RATE SUPPORT AS OUTLINED IN GUIDELINE NUMBER 4.
- CONSUMERS MAY NOT COMBINE RATE SUPPORT AND CONSUMER CASH REBATES.
- GMAC FINANCE RATE ALTERNATIVE CANNOT BE USED WITH SMARTLEASE
OR SMARTBUY CONTRACTS.
- THE GMAC ALTERNATIVE APR FINANCING PARAMETERS IN THIS MESSAGE
ARE "ONLY" AVAILABLE FOR QUALIFYING CUSTOMERS. DETAILS REGARDING
TIERS ARE DESCRIBED IN GUIDELINE NUMBER 4. QUESTIONS SHOULD
BE DIRECTED TO YOUR LOCAL GMAC OFFICE.

PROGRAM TIME PERIOD (DELIVERED):
FEBRUARY 1, 2005 THROUGH MARCH 31, 2005

ELIGIBLE MODELS: ALL NEW AND UNUSED 2005 MODELS LISTED BELOW:

2005 MODELS

CHEVROLET:
SILVERADO
AVALANCHE
TRAILBLAZER
TRAILBLAZER EXT
TAHOE
SUBURBAN

ALLOWANCE: 37-60 MONTH GMAC ALTERNATE APR FINANCING OF 0.0%*
* ALTERNATE GMAC APR:
TERMS 37-60 MONTHS AVAILABLE FOR S, A, B & C TIER QUALIFYING
CUSTOMERS ONLY.

05-31AAI GMAC FINANCING ALLOWANCE PROGRAM

GENERAL MOTORS IS ANNOUNCING GMAC/NUVELL FINANCING INCENTIVE.
THIS ALLOWANCE IS AVAILABLE ON ELIGIBLE DELIVERIES TO CUSTOMERS
WHO EITHER LEASE OR FINANCE THEIR VEHICLE THROUGH GMAC OR NUVELL.
SEE DETAILS BELOW.

THIS PROGRAM IS AVAILABLE ON DELIVERIES TO RESIDENTS OF THE WESTERN
REGION ONLY.

- TO DETERMINE CUSTOMER ELIGIBILITY, UTILIZE THE STATE/COUNTY/DMA
GEOGRAPHIC BOUNDARIES LISTED IN TEMPLATES 05-H AND 05-I (ADMIN.
MESSAGE NUMBERS BAI20040619 AND BAI20040620). THESE TEMPLATES
WERE SENT VIA GM MESSENGER TO ALL GENERAL MOTORS DEALERS ON
SEPTEMBER 27, 2004.

IMPORTANT PROGRAM NOTES:
- THE CUSTOMER MUST FINANCE THE VEHICLE THROUGH GMAC OR NUVELL TO BE
ELIGIBLE FOR THIS PROGRAM. THEY MAY USE EITHER A SUPPORTED OR
NON-SUPPORTED (STANDARD) SMARTLEASE/SMARTBUY OR APR PROGRAM.

- FOR GMAC SMARTLEASE/SMARTBUY CONTRACTS, THIS ALLOWANCE MUST BE
UTILIZED TO REDUCE THE CAPITALIZED COST OF THE GMAC SMARTLEASE
CONTRACT OR THE AMOUNT TO FINANCE FOR GMAC SMARTBUY CONTRACTS. THIS
ALLOWANCE MAY NOT BE OFFERED AS CASH TO THE CUSTOMER.

- FOR RETAIL PURCHASE CONTRACTS, THIS FINANCING ALLOWANCE MAY BE
ASSIGNED TO THE DEALER AS PART OF THE DOWN PAYMENT OR RECEIVED
AS A CHECK FROM THE DEALERSHIP.

FEBRUARY 1, 2005 THROUGH MARCH 31, 2005

ELIGIBLE MODELS: ALL NEW AND UNUSED 2005 MODELS LISTED BELOW:

2005 MODELS: ALLOWANCE:

CHEVROLET:
SILVERADO $1000
AVALANCHE $1000
TRAILBLAZER $1000
TRAILBLAZER EXT $1000
TAHOE $1000
SUBURBAN $1000
05-31AAD FEBRUARY/MARCH INSTANT VALUE CERTIFICATE PROGRAM

CHEVROLET IS ANNOUNCING AN INSTANT VALUE CERTIFICATE INCENTIVE PROGRAM. THE INSTANT VALUE CERTIFICATE IS GOOD TOWARDS THE PURCHASE OR LEASE OF SELECT ELIGIBLE NEW AND
UNUSED MODELS LISTED BELOW.

IMPORTANT PROGRAM NOTES:
- EACH DEALER WILL BE ASSIGNED A SPECIFIC NUMBER OF CERTIFICATES
BASED ON CRITERIA DESCRIBED ON WWW.GMPROGRAMINFO.COM. DEALERS
SHOULD GO TO WWW.GMPROGRAMINFO.COM AND CLICK ON "FEBRUARY/MARCH
INSTANT VALUE CERTIFICATE PROGRAM" TO DETERMINE THE QUANTITY OF
CERTIFICATES THAT WILL BE ASSIGNED TO THEIR PARTICULAR DEALERSHIP.
- ADDITIONAL CERTIFICATE REQUESTS WILL NOT BE HONORED.
- THE ACTUAL CERTIFICATES WILL BE AVAILABLE TO THE DEALERSHIP
VIA THE WEB. THE DEALER MUST PRINT THE CERTIFICATE FROM THE WEB.
- DEALERS MAY NOT USE OR APPLY FOR PAYMENT FOR A NUMBER OF
CERTIFICATES THAT EXCEEDS THE QUANTITY ASSIGNED TO THEIR DEALER
CODE. DEALERS WILL BE CHARGED BACK FOR ANY PAYMENTS IN EXCESS OF
THEIR ALLOCATION. ALL CERTIFICATES MUST BE RETAINED IN THE DEAL
JACKET FOR AUDIT PURPOSES.
- DEALERS MAY CHOOSE TO OFFER UP TO FOUR CERTIFICATES ON SELECT
ELIGIBLE MODELS PER PURCHASE/LEASE TO ELIGIBLE CUSTOMERS AS
DETAILED IN GUIDELINE NUMBER FOUR BELOW (EXCEPT AS NOTED BELOW).
- ON GMAC SMARTLEASE/SMARTBUY CONTRACTS, THIS ALLOWANCE MUST BE
UTILIZED TO REDUCE THE CAPITALIZED COST OF THE GMAC SMARTLEASE
CONTRACT OR THE AMOUNT TO FINANCE FOR THE GMAC SMARTBUY CONTRACT.
ON GMAC SMARTLEASE/SMARTBUY CONTRACTS, THIS ALLOWANCE MAY NOT BE
OFFERED AS CASH TO THE CUSTOMER.

PROGRAM TIME PERIOD (DELIVERED):
FEBRUARY 1, 2005 THROUGH MARCH 31, 2005

ELIGIBLE MODELS/REQUIRED OPTIONS/ORDER TYPES AND ALLOWANCES:

CHEVROLET:
SILVERADO
AVALANCHE
TRAILBLAZER
TRAILBLAZER EXT
TAHOE
SUBURBAN

ALLOWANCE: $250 PER CERTIFICATE *

* EACH CERTIFICATE IS VALUED AT $250. ONE (1), TWO (2), THREE (3)
OR FOUR (4) CERTIFICATES MAY BE USED PER ELIGIBLE DELIVERY EXCEPT
AS NOTED IN GUIDELINE NUMBERS 7 & 8 BELOW.

NOTE: DEALERS MAY NOT USE OR APPLY FOR PAYMENT FOR A
NUMBER OF CERTIFICATES THAT EXCEEDS THE QUANTITY
ASSIGNED TO THEIR DEALER CODE.

COMPATIBLE INCENTIVE/ALLOWANCE PROGRAMS:
VEHICLES DELIVERED UNDER THIS PROGRAM MAY ALSO BE ELIGIBLE FOR OTHER
PROGRAMS. SINCE NOT ALL PROGRAMS MAY BE COMBINED WITH
EACH OTHER, CONSULT THE GUIDELINES OF EACH PROGRAM IN QUESTION.
ADDITIONALLY, REGIONAL PROGRAMS ARE NOT COMPATIBLE WITH EACH OTHER.

9) GM Employee & Supplier Eligibility for 2005

To: ALL GM DEALERS

Following are the 2005 Model Year restrictions from the individual Marketing Teams for the GM Employee Purchase Program, the GM Supplier New Vehicle Purchase Program , and the GM Dealership Employee Purchase Program as of January 25, 2005:

Buick - No restrictions.

Cadillac
CTS - Very limited GMU.
XLR - 2005 models are not available for GM Employee, Supplier, or Dealership Employee Purchase.
2004 model year XLR is available for GMS.

Chevrolet Cars
Classic (old body style Malibu) - Not available for GM Employee, Supplier, or Dealership Employee Purchase.
Corvette - Very limited GMU.
GMS and stock sales to Supplier are eligible (effective 2/1/05 convertibles are not
eligible for GMS).
Only eligible for the U6C portion of the Dealership Employee Purchase Program.

Chevrolet Trucks
Equinox - Limited GMU.
Astro Van - No cargo models in GMU.
Express Van - No cargo models in GMU.
Silverado 2500/2500HD - Orders must include a box (E63), no chassis (ZW9/9W9) models allowed.
Silverado 3500 - Orders must include a box (E63), no chassis (ZW9/9W9) models allowed.
Cutaway Vans - Not available for GM Employee, Supplier, or Dealership Employee Purchase.
Kodiak (C4500) - Not available.

GMC
Safari Van - No cargo models in GMU.
Savana Van - No cargo models in GMU.
Sierra 2500/2500HD - Orders must include a box (E63), no chassis (ZW9/9W9) models allowed.
Sierra 3500 - Orders must include a box (E63), no chassis (ZW9/9W9) models allowed
Cutaway Vans - Not available for GM Employee, Supplier, or Dealership Employee Purchase.
TopKick (C4500) - Not available.

Pontiac
Grand Am Sedan - Not available for GM Employee, Supplier, or Dealership Employee Purchase.

Hummer
H2 SUT - Very limited GMU.

Saturn - No restrictions

GMS = GM Employee Plan
GMU = GM Company Car Purchase Plan

The above restrictions are subject to change at any time.

10) Weekly Constraint/Production News

Constraints are distributed based on Available Days’ Supply (ADS), Controlled Method or Percent of Allocation (POA). Dealers can use the weekly constraint wire to see the basic availability of an option. The percentages on the weekly constraint wire are estimated based on the national retail number of the constrained option divided by the amount of retail orders being allocated for the week.

Chevrolet Constraint Wire for 3/24/05

2005 CORVETTE

Corvette contraints for March 24, 2005

Constraint Code, Description, Available Nationally

00479, Corvette Convertible, 245
00649, Corvette Coupe or Convertible with Z51 Package, 245
79U Millennium Yellow, Discontinued
86U Magnetic Red Metallic, Discontinued

Orders selected this week for dealers with allocation within constraints will be produced the week of 4/18/05 thru 4/24/05.

11) 2002 thru 2005 Erratic Fuel Reading – NEW 3/25/05

2002, 2003, 2004, 2005 Chevrolet Corvette and 2004-2005 Cadillac XLR (Y-Body) Fuel Gauge is Erratic
Message VSS20050445

General Motors is in the process of redesigning the fuel tank sending units in both of the subject vehicles. A new part number has been released but it is not yet in stock. Some dealers have attempted to order the new parts 88967315 or 7316 and they have been told that the parts are not yet available. The new parts have an improved ink coating which will provide improved resistance to fuel contamination and correct fuel sender over travel which is the primary cause for the fuel gauge being erratic. Fuel Modules should not be replaced for complaints of erratic fuel gauge. The fuel sender card is the only part required.

Until the new fuel sender cards are available, the 2004 card is available and can be used. Part number 10310028 left side and 10310103 for the right side will operate in all 2002 through 2005 applications. However it does not have the improved ink path. In cases where a customer insists on a replacement part, the 2004 part can be used although it is the same part that is currently in their car. Availability is expected by the end of April. A bulletin will be released with correct part numbers as soon as the parts become available.


Thanks for taking the time to read my weekly newsletter and thanks for your business!

TommyV

Thanks Ken, any clue how much $ the '06 base coupe will be going up? Also, any more news about the A6?

CaseyKasey

MY GOD KEN, you've done it! You were able to help all of the forum members without going against what GM slapped your hands for the first time. THERE IS NO MENTION OF THE AUTOMATIC 6 SPEED, BUTTHERE IS ALSO NO MENTION OF THE PERFOMANCE AXLE OPTION...WHICH HAS BEEN THERE WITH THE A4, AND WE KNOW THE GENERAL WOULD NEVER TAKE AWAY CORVETTE PERFORMANCE WITHOUT SOMETHING BETTER TO OFFER.

Dash Culpepper

11) 2002 thru 2005 Erratic Fuel Reading – NEW 3/25/05

Thanks Ken, this is the problem I am having with my 2005.......I now have something to show the service department regarding my problem.

Neil E. Miller

Ken, I know I speak for many when I say your letters are the earliest Corvette info available and always totally bonafied accurate information. You are invaluable to the Corvette faithful and greatly appreciated. When I am ready for a C6 Z06 you will be under consideration. Thanks again. Also thanks for the great prices on Corvette parts. I have presents in transit as we speak.

Ken Fichtner

Thanks for all of your comments and questions!!!

It's rewarding to know that the news is read and of value.

Powerhungry,
My understanding based on conversations with the Chevrolet Corvette team is that the A6 will not be an option at the beginning of the 2006 model year. Final validation has yet to occur. Once the powertrain package has been validated an option for an A6 will be announced.

Dash,
I am glad that I was able to provide you with this information.

Neil,
Thanks for your kind words. I am battling a cold/flu that has turned into pnemonia. Though I am feeling a bit tough your post brought a big smile to my face.

Have a great Holiday weekend,
Ken Fichtner

Vettin Man

Ken,

Just read yout post about coming down with pnemonia. Please take care of yourself and take all the rest and other steps necessary to get back to good health right away. We will pray for a speedy recovery!!

Bill

Street Beast

Ken,

I was in a high volume corvette dealer last week and the sales manager said that due to the emissions issues at GM, the Z51 would not be offered on any remaining 2005 C6's. With 2005 production running through September 2005, I am thinking of canceling my 2005 order and having it resubmited in July as a 2006 model year.

Is what I heard accurate???? Inquiring minds want to know!!

Zilla

Ken

My 2001 has the erratic fuel gauge and was built within the last month of the 2001 prodcution year. Is it possible that I could have a fuel tank sending units design and used in the 2002 and up?

Ken Fichtner

Street Beast,
NO the Z51 option has not been cancelled! It will remain constrained but it has not been cancelled, period.

Zilla,
It is possible that your car has the 2002 design because of it's late build. Check with your local, and hopefully knowledgeable, Chevrolet dealer.

Zilla

Thanks Ken

fdxpilot

Hey, Ken. I love your newsletters and those from PartsBob, but don't you think you should update the Z06 FAQ with some of the already published info.

Street Beast

Thanks Ken. I'll wait to see if I get a build date from Bowling Green.

Ken Fichtner

Thanks for the comments fellas.

I haven't changed much in the Z06 FAQ because believe it or not I get questions like those published every day!

I will take a look at freshening that area this week.

Thanks for the comments, keep them coming!

Ken