Automakers give themselves a flat! Fresh off the ether of CASH for Clunkers, car buyers continue to prowl dealer lots for 2009 left-over’s and new 2010 models.  Unfortunately, the looming expanses of empty asphalt are creating a psychological push-back as consumers read the missing inventory as a still faltering economy, lack of confidence on the part of the car makers and dealer instability. As recently as yesterday, a truck buyer considering a Ford and Dodge expressed to me his concern over sustained warranty support for the Dodge. His query come to me before the brilliant decision announced by CHRYSLER, to eliminate the famous LIFETIME WARRANTY on 2010 Dodge, Chrysler and Jeep products.  While Dodge hasn’t shipped a new 2010 Ram yet, they aren’t the only ones destroying any positive effect from the $2 billion dollar summer auto sales campaign.  European and Japanese brands have demonstrated their skepticism of a US economic turnaround by cutting production and incentives on 2010’s. Infiniti’s EX, BMW X6 and Audi’s Q5 are missing from dealers showrooms, for as long as 5 weeks between shipments. The effect on pricing has been rewarding as most deals have been at or close to full retail MSRP, yet dealers would like to have enough product to meet interest and demand.  Toyota released the 2010 Prius during the height of the CARS program, created new dilemma for sales-starved dealerships. The redesigned Prius was the most sought after new car on the CASH for Clunkers shopping list. However, some dealers were caught in a difficult bind, able to charge upwards of $5,000.00 over sticker, which wasn’t in accordance with the federal trade-in program. Toyota got the message, pushing the orders back until the trade rebates were over, preserving the profit and mystique of the Prius.   Unfortunately, as dealers wait for tractor-trailers loaded with new models, consumers have stopped asking about miles per gallon. It would have been a nice to have a federal policy to follow-up the principles of the CARS program, with dealer and manufacturer participation. Some have suggested a tax credit for the clunker trade-in, providing dealers are willing to destroy the engines for the benefit of renewed sales and the couple hundred bucks in scrap fees, providing the true cash value is less than $2,000.00  I make this point so that those individuals needing basic transportation can still buy a set of wheels for under $5,000.00.  I would also include USED CAR purchases in the purchase options. Not everyone can afford or qualify for a new car, so why should they be barred from helping the economy? Used cars come from trade-ins, so two cars get sold, instead of one. Hello, anyone listening care to comment? —————————————————————————————— Sarah Lee is an automotive executive with 20+ years of experience. She writes about Cars, and is a staunch consumer advocate on car related subjects. Her company: MY CARLADY is a car buyer’s service committed to getting you the best deal on your next new or pre-owned vehicle. You can reach her at www.mycarlady.com Top learn more about getting your best car deal click here: CAR DEALS          NEED AUTO FINANCE HELP or CREDIT report repair go to tell them MY CARLADY: Sarah Lee sent you. It’s a free consult and they do the right thing by you, fast, easy, cheap.]]>