Sales Slump Leaves Toyota and Lexus Offering Free Maintenance and More

After several automakers courted Toyota customers last month, as a result of the quality issues they encountered, the embattled automaker has finally decided to strike back. In an effort to win back customers, it was widely speculated that Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A, was going to blow the roof off the house with unprecedented incentives this month -- after sales declined overall by about 8 percent in February.

Ford Motor Company seemed to benefit most from Toyota customers that may have defected, with a whopping 43 percent sales increase last month. Ironically, while customers backed away from Toyota brand vehicles last month, based upon the sales results, it didn't seem to affect Lexus new-vehicle sales, which were up 5.3 percent last month. Moreover, Nissan, GM and Chrysler along with a number of other brands saw an increase in sales last month too.

To get in the game, here's what Toyota is offering this month to help win customers back again:
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• 0% APR financing for up to 60 months on all 2010 Avalon, Camry, Corolla, Highlander, Matrix, RAV4, Tundra and Yaris, for qualifying buyers. At one time, only the domestics offered cheap rate loans for 60 months. This is definitely a sign of the times!
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• Low lease rates will be available on 2010 Avalon, Camry, Corolla, Highlander, Matrix, Prius, RAV4, Tundra and Venza, for qualifying buyers.  (Examples include a Corolla lease for $179 a month and a Camry lease for $199 a month, although offers may vary regionally). To find our if leasing makes sense read our latest post, "Are You a Lease Candidate?"
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• Complimentary two-year premium maintenance program for customers who purchase or lease a new vehicle and provide proof of a Toyota, Lexus or Scion vehicle already registered in household, with applicable conditions. This is a first for the automaker. Audi, BMW, Lincoln and VW are the only other brands, offering free maintenance.