Uncle Joe's Makeover Diary 2.0

[Ryan Everson]

You've gotta $82,000 Used 2023 GMC Sierra 2500HD Denali with 5k miles. It's filled with WOW-FACTOR features, options & packages.
View attachment 8213
You just posted it online, there are 18 like it for sale near you. You want to make it stand out...

You counted 66 features, options and packages on the window sticker, and you want most all of them on your VDP...
View attachment 8214

Question:
How many of these 66 key features are MISSING on

• Your Site VDP
• Cars.com VDP
• CarGurus VDP
• AutoTrader VDP

What's your guess, how many are missing? 0? 10? 20? 40?

I'm a huge proponent of using window stickers at time of appraisal and when booking the options out in your IMS.

Do you know of an API that will accept a VIN and return the window sticker broken out in a digestible format? Or worst case an image/pdf url that we could use OCR to pull options out programmatically.

 

[joe.pistell]

TIME TO RANT.​

Post 1 of 4. Our story begins with your buyer landed a sweet low mile 22 Traverse Premier, it's loaded. It's the white one below. Look at what your shopper sees on CarGurus...


REMEMBER, a large share of car shoppers are not car junkies, they don't know an RS trim from a Premier. All they see is they have the same Leather & roof, one is $1,200 less with 6,000 more miles.

So, your shoppers go to the VDP for more info: Check out the Features, options and packages info on both rides:


Grrrr. Identical except "Prefered Package" on the left. WTF is a "Prefered Package"?

Oh, but "they can read the features in the comments". Yea, like 0.015% of car shoppers are going to read this mess. This is an actual copy/paste from the White Traverse:

Apple Carplay & Andriod Auto, Push Button Ignition, Backup Camera, Balance of Factory Warranty, Blind Spot Warning System, Bluetooth, Dual Power Seats, Heated Seats, Leather Seats, Moonroof, Rear Climate Package, Remote Start, FRESH ARRIVAL, AWD. Odometer is 14627 miles below market average! Iridescent Pearl Tricoat 2022 Chevrolet Traverse Premier AWD 9-Speed Automatic 3.6L V6 SIDI VVT "Bob Johnson has got your ride" At Bob Johnson Auto Group we use a third party provider for our Market Value Pricing (MVP) that is constantly polling over 70,000 advertised used vehicles hourly to ensure our customers the most competitive price. Our managers adjust our prices daily accordingly. Recent Arrival! BOB JOHNSON CHEVY-BUICK FORD only keeps / acquires the very best inventory for our pre-owned selection. The selection and reconditioning process is unmatched and has set a new standard for pre-owned dealers entirely. While we see dozens of vehicles each day, only a few "make the lot". This is one of those few! Take advantage of this clean, long-lasting vehicle today! Please verify the accuracy of information regarding the actual vehicle equipment, miles, vehicle specifications, location, and vehicle price with dealer. For more information on this vehicle, or to make an appointment call us at 315-298-5181(chevy) 315-298-5114(ford)

Additional Information

Navigation System,Front License Plate Bracket Mounting Package,Preferred Equipment Group 1LZ,Trailering Equipment,10 Speakers,AM/FM radio: SiriusXM with 360L,Bose Premium 10-Speaker Audio System Feature,Premium audio system: Chevrolet Infotainment 3 Plus,Radio data system,Radio: Chevrolet Infotainment 3 Plus System w/Navi,SiriusXM w/360L,Air Conditioning,Automatic temperature control,Front dual zone A/C,Rear air conditioning,Rear window defroster,6-Way Power Front Passenger Seat,8-Way Power Driver Seat Adjuster,Memory seat,Power driver seat,Power steering,Power windows,Remote keyless entry,Steering wheel memory,Steering wheel mounted audio controls,Four wheel independent suspension,Not Equipped w/Heated Steering Wheel,Speed-sensing steering,Traction control,4-Wheel Disc Brakes,ABS brakes,Dual front impact airbags,Dual front side impact airbags,Emergency communication system: OnStar Guidance,Front anti-roll bar,Low tire pressure warning,Occupant sensing airbag,Overhead airbag,Rear anti-roll bar,Dual SkyScape 2-Panel Power Sunroof,Power Liftgate,Brake assist,Electronic Stability Control,Auto High-beam Headlights,Delay-off headlights,Fully automatic headlights,Panic alarm,Security system,Speed control,Heavy-Duty Cooling System,Auto-dimming door mirrors,Bumpers: body-color,Heated door mirrors,Power door mirrors,Roof rack: rails only,Spoiler,Turn signal indicator mirrors,Apple CarPlay/Android Auto,Auto-dimming Rear-View mirror,Compass,Driver door bin,Driver vanity mirror,Front reading lights,Garage door transmitter,Heated Steering Wheel,Heated steering wheel,Illuminated entry,Leather steering wheel,Not Equipped w/Rear Park Assist,Outside temperature display,Overhead console,Passenger vanity mirror,Rear Park Assist w/Audible Warning,Rear reading lights,Tachometer,Telescoping steering wheel,Tilt steering wheel,Trip computer,Voltmeter,3rd row seats: split-bench,Front Bucket Seats,Front Center Armrest,Front Passenger 2-Way Power Lumbar,Heated 2nd Row Outboard Position Seats,Heated Driver & Front Passenger Seats,Heated front seats,Heated rear seats,Not Equipped w/Dr & Fr Pass Heated or Ventilated Seats,Not Equipped w/Heated Rear Outboard Seats (DISC),Perforated Leather-Appointed Seat Trim,Power Driver Lumbar Control,Power passenger seat,Ventilated Driver & Front Passenger Seats,Ventilated front seats,Passenger door bin,Hitch Guidance w/Hitch View,Trailering Assist Guidelines,Alloy wheels,Wheels: 20" Metallic Machined-Face Aluminum,Rear window wiper,Variably intermittent wipers,3.49 Axle Ratio,Apple Carplay & Andriod Auto,Push Button Ignition,Backup Camera,Balance of Factory Warranty,Blind Spot Warning System,Bluetooth,Dual Power Seats,Heated Seats,Lane Departure Warning,Leather Seats,Moonroof,Rear Climate Package,Remote Start,FRESH ARRIVAL

​

Summary: Guru's (and the other sites) gives near ZERO support to help your customers discover what's installed on these rides... so... create a rule for your UCM: For classified sites, key on Price, Miles and Year, because the trim and the options are meaningless.

https://www.cargurus.com/Cars/inventorylisting/viewDetailsFilterViewInventoryListing.action?sourceContext=carGurusHomePageModel&entitySelectingHelper.selectedEntity=d1521&zip=13029#listing=368968138/NONE/DEFAULT

edit: I revisited the options list on gurus for the white traverse and the option added Trailer Package to the list and there is none installed.

 

[joe.pistell]

Post 2 of 4
Compare the above to the WOW-Factor features/options/package list for the white Traverse.
Features not seen on CarGurus are Red.

Vehicle Data​

YEAR: 2022
MAKE: Chevrolet
MODEL: Traverse
EXTERIOR COLOR: Iridescent Pearl Tricoat
TRIM: AWD Premier

---

Features​

Comfort​

• Leather front seat upholstery
• Fixed third-row seats
• Driver seat power reclining, lumbar support, cushion tilt, fore/aft control and height adjustable control
• Dual-zone front climate control
• Rear climate control system with separate controls
• Second-row bucket seats

Convenience​

• Adaptive Cruise Control
• Smart device and keyfob engine start control
• Power liftgate rear cargo door
• Front wireless smart device charging
• Keyless Start with hands-free access and push button start
• Keyfob window control
• Proximity cargo area access release
• Manual fold into floor third-row seat

Exterior and Appearance​

• Dual SkyScape first-row sliding and tilting glass sunroof with express open/close activation manual sunshade
• Second-row sunroof coverage
• Hitch Guidance back-up-to-hitch assist

In-car Entertainment​

• Primary monitor touchscreen
• Bluetooth wireless audio streaming
• Active noise cancellation
• Bose speakers

Powertrain and Mechanical​

• Part and full-time AWD
• 3.6L V-6 gasoline direct injection, DOHC, VVT variable valve control, regular unleaded, engine with 310HP

Safety and Security​

• Mobileye Forward Collision Alert
• Front Pedestrian Braking and Rear Pedestrian Alert
• HD Surround Vision rear camera with washer
• Lane Keep Assist
• Brake Assist predictive brake assist system
• Rear Cross Traffic Alert collision warning
• Teen Driver restricted driving mode
• Rear Pedestrian Alert rear pedestrian detection warning
• HD Surround Vision aerial view camera
• Stolen Vehicle Assistance vehicle tracker with vehicle slowdown
• Rear Camera Mirror video-feed rearview mirror
• HD Surround Vision front mounted camera
• HD Surround Vision right side camera
• HD Surround Vision left side camera
• Side Blind Zone Alert blind spot warning
• Following Distance Indicator
• IntelliBeam auto high-beam headlights
• StabiliTrak electronic stability control system with anti-roll
• Hill Start Assist

Technology and Telematics​

• Apple CarPlay/Android Auto smart device mirroring
• Wi-Fi Hotspot capable mobile hotspot internet access
• Integrated navigation system with voice activation
• OnStar Guidance vehicle integrated emergency SOS system
• Bluetooth handsfree wireless device connectivity
• 6 USB ports

---

Packages​

Preferred Equipment Group 1LZ​

• Heated 2nd Row Outboard Position Seats NOT INSTALLED
• Heated Steering Wheel NOT INSTALLED
• Rear Park Assist with Audible Warning
• Heated Driver and Front Passenger Seats NOT INSTALLED
• All-Wheel Drive System
• Ventilated Driver and Front Passenger Seats NOT INSTALLED

 

[joe.pistell]

Post 3 of 4. Structure of an AI Comment Generator
Opening Paragraph • Product Feature Descriptions • Test Drive Invitation • Dealer's Unique Selling Proposition

2022 Chevrolet Traverse Premier AWD​

a) Opening Paragraph
Discover the epitome of comfort and versatility in our lightly-traveled 2022 Chevrolet Traverse AWD Premier, finished in a stunning Iridescent Pearl Tricoat. With its spacious cabin, advanced technology, and dynamic performance, this SUV offers a premium journey with just 11,800 miles on the odometer.

b) Product Feature Descriptions

Safety: Prioritize peace of mind with the Traverse’s robust safety suite. Equipped with Mobileye Forward Collision Alert and Rear Pedestrian Alert, your awareness is heightened in crowded areas. Lane Keep Assist, IntelliBeam auto high-beam headlights, and StabiliTrak stability control ensure your drive is not only safe but confident under varying conditions.

Seating: Step into the sanctuary of the Traverse’s cabin, where you’re greeted by luxe leather front seat upholstery and dual-zone climate control for personalized comfort. The driver seat is a throne of power adjustments, including lumbar support and cushion tilt, ensuring your focus is on the journey, not the destination.

Technology: Tech aficionados will revel in the integrated Chevrolet Connected Navigation and real-time traffic updates, ensuring you're always on the most efficient path. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto bring your favorite apps to your fingertips, while a Wi-Fi Hotspot keeps you connected on the go.

Exterior: The Traverse doesn’t just take you places; it does so with style. The Dual SkyScape sunroof bathes the cabin in natural light, while the 20-inch aluminum wheels and active grille shutters merge functionality with flair.

Additional Features: From the convenience of a power liftgate for your cargo needs to the Adaptive Cruise Control for those long drives, every aspect of this Traverse is designed to enhance your driving experience. Bluetooth audio streaming and Bose speakers provide an immersive auditory experience, while the capless fuel filler adds a touch of simplicity to your routine.

c) Test Drive Invitation
We invite you to experience the difference a test drive makes. Feel the composed handling and the responsive powertrain of this Traverse, and while you're here, explore our selection of similar models. With seven other Traverse models in stock*, finding your perfect match has never been easier.

d) Dealer's Unique Selling Proposition
At Reymore Chevrolet, you're not just buying a car; you're becoming part of a community. Rated at 4.8 stars on Google, our dedication to a friendly, fair, and collaborative car buying experience sets us apart. Let us help you navigate through our impressive range to find a vehicle that fits not just your needs but your dreams, all with the assurance of a smooth and swift transaction. Your journey to a new drive starts with a simple step into Reymore Chevrolet in Central Square, NY, where your time and peace of mind are valued above all.

*All shoppers want a productive experience in the store. Some shoppers that have many open questions will find comfort in seeing multiple choices prior to purchase.

 

[joe.pistell]

Post 4 of 4.
Want your Dealer Notes more witty? Twist the knobs on AI and add comedy into the delivery:

2022 Chevrolet Traverse Premier AWD​

a) Opening Paragraph
Hop into the driver's seat of our barely-used 2022 Chevrolet Traverse AWD Premier, with a coat of Iridescent Pearl Tricoat that's shinier than a disco ball at a roller rink. Just 11,800 miles? This SUV's so fresh, it still thinks it's on the showroom floor!

b) Product Feature Descriptions
Safety: Buckle up for the ultimate bubble wrap experience in vehicle form. With more eyes than a paranoid chameleon, features like Forward Collision Alert and Lane Keep Assist keep you safer than a porcupine in a balloon factory.

Seating: The leather seats in this Traverse are so plush, you'll feel like you're sitting on a throne – minus the palace intrigue. Driver seat with more adjustments than a chiropractor, ensuring your rear end won't file a complaint even on the longest journeys.

Technology: You'll be more connected than a conspiracy theorist on the internet with this Traverse's tech. Navigate through the streets with an integrated system that's more intuitive than your last relationship, and a Wi-Fi Hotspot to ensure you’re never out of the loop.

Exterior: Onlookers will be green with envy at the sunroof that's basically a VIP pass for the sun. And those 20-inch wheels? They're like wearing a pair of designer shoes that actually grip the road and don’t give you blisters.

Additional Features: With Adaptive Cruise Control smoother than a jazz musician on a Saturday night and a power liftgate that's like having your own personal doorman, this Traverse is like the Swiss Army knife of the SUV world – if Swiss Army knives came with Bose speakers and smelled like leather.

c) Test Drive Invitation
Ever tried on seven different pairs of shoes in one go? Well, now's your chance but with SUVs! Take this Traverse for a spin and compare it with its siblings. It’s like a family reunion, but with cars and without the awkward small talk.

d) Dealer's Unique Selling Proposition
Reymore Chevrolet is the Willy Wonka's Chocolate Factory of car dealerships – minus the Oompa Loompas, but just as magical. We're not just slinging metal and rubber; we're dealing in dreams on wheels, and our 4.8 Google stars shine brighter than a supernova of customer satisfaction. Swing by Reymore Chevrolet in Central Square, NY, and let us find you the automotive equivalent of a perfect Saturday – easy, breezy, and with a touch of adventure.

 

[flosho]

I like the "witty" AI version.. for about 2 paragraphs, then it gets redundant/try hard.

Mix in about 2 of those zingers after the 1st paragraph and keep the rest normal-speak, IMO.


copy pasta from our X5M "opening paragraph"...

We have for sale an amazing 2016 BMW X5M All-Wheel Drive Executive-Performance SUV that is an absolute blast to drive and offers an incredible combination of luxury, performance and technology! It has a gorgeous Donington Grey Metallic paint with Blacked Out 21-Inch M-Double Spoke Wheels and the phenomenal Mugello Red and Black Interior that looks amazing! This X5M is like the tale of two SUVs with its ability to present a smooth, executive-level luxury SUV for when you have take your Nana to early-bird dinner at 4:00PM and run the streets by 7:00PM! There's no doubt, that if you like how it looks in the photos, you will fall in love when you come to drive it.

 

[Will G.]

Something about completely replacing the background looks off to me. I prefer to show the vehicle as it is, even if I have to stage the car several times to avoid background distractions and to avoid shooting towards the sun.


links to mentioned listings:
white A5
gray A5 I shot
Elantra
white Elantra I shot



vs.

 

[joe.pistell]

@Will G. great work. Dealers need to study your work & what's happening on https://bringatrailer.com/.

 

[joe.pistell]

Yup, its coming.

This is a "GPT". A GPT is a premade, task based robot at ChatGPT that is built for a specific task...
in this case "The Negotiator".

hahaha Circa 2007

Anyone want to join me and build 2 GPT's, (1) a car shopper facing and (2) dealer facing "Negotiator" GPT? Both parties would love it.


Online Survey, 276 car shoppers:

So much change is coming... ​

My solution to this AI wave is to be on the "tip of the spear", nimble, fast and iterative.​

When it comes to AI, if you prefer to be on the offense (rather than defending the past), keep connected to this thread. If you want a front side seat, I am looking for Dealer partners, Technology Partners, Vendor partners, Financial partners, anyone that wants to be using new tech to attack friction in the dealer's eco system with a focus to help dealers become more successful.

Message me here, or via [email protected].

p.s. To any DIY'er* that wants to go down this rabbit hole, one thing is universal with this NEW age is "speed of innovation" itself.

AI is a new born, we've seen the 1st pitch in a 9 inning baseball game. Speed of innovation itself will be so fast, that it MUST become the cornerstone of this initiative. Already, with OpenAI's new product upgrade, I am seeing AI agency's, AI services being blown up overnight. To ride on the tip of the spear, you will need to design/build with the 'fail fast' mindset. If you're a larger vendor, beware of your org structure, this disruption is aimed right at you. Time from Product ideation to launch will be so challenging that you may need a 'skunk works' to lead you thru the coming mayhem.

p.p.s. VENDORS: if you this your mission is to DEFEND your empire, may I suggest an AI awakening, google "AI Agent Swarms" (seek out the intellect of David Shapiro)

DR ppl, Please share your thoughts.
Uncle Joe

 

[joe.pistell]

GM to phase out CarPlay.​

Dear Mary Berra,
Who is feeding you these ideas? Look at ANY of your dealer's GA4. This Chevy point is RURAL.

GM's President Mark Reuss has said that hybrid vehicles are not necessary.​

Dear Mary Berra,
Who is feeding you these ideas?