The new Series ''M'' was introduced at the end of 1930. This model was as unique and breathtaking as the Model ''K'' was beautiful. The front fenders flared up a bit and pointed straight forward. The headlamps and grille had a distinguished rectangular shape, high and narrow. The disc wheels were smooth cones. The design remained as a Checker feature for a number of years until after World War II. The seat cushions were filled with down, and when a passenger would leave, the cabbies would reach in and fluff them up with a special little paddle that they carried.

In February of 1931 Checker took another big step and formed the Empire Cab Association in an effort to improve the cab wars that were so predominant in New York City. Composed of Independent Operators of Checker cabs, the Association was intended to give the small operators an opportunity to continue with their business unmolested.

Along with the turmoil of the cab wars was the horrible money situation caused by the Depression. This was one of the toughest times the country faced. The profit picture by the end of May 1931 consisted of a grand total of $665. Now, this doesn't look good for a going business, but when almost everyone else in the auto industry was using red ink in their ledgers. This was a remarkable accomplishment. It looked so good, in fact, that the other companies, such as General Motors brought their new General Cab into the New York City area to try to break up the Checker stronghold. These cabs were offered to all takers at $360 down and no firm contract to pay the remainder. These policies hurt Checker, but it was very short-lived. Checker management watched as predictable things took place. Cabbies on the program were not making payments. No place to make them. Nor were they fixing or replacing vehicles. No place to do that either. The cabbies drove the new vehicles until they broke down completely or wore all the tires out, then gave them back to General Cab. Within hours, the cabbies were back into Checkers once more. This was a very expensive lesson for such a large manufacturer.