The government program known as Cash for Clunkers, actually the CARS program sponsored by the US Department of Transportation, is all set to kick off on Friday, July 24.
Most Charlotte area dealers of all makes and models will be registering to participate. As with any legitimate program, there are always scam artists lining up take advantage of the situation. Liberty Pontiac GMC Truck knows that an informed consumer makes the best customer, so here are some tips to know to see if you might benefit from the government rebate of up to $4500.
1. As a consumer, you DO NOT need to pre-register for a voucher. The dealer will apply for your rebate when he/she receives all necessary documentation from you. The dealer applies the rebate to your purchase price, and the dealer will receive the cash rebate after government authorization.
2. The only official program information is available to both consumers and dealers at http://www.cars.gov/. Official fuel economy ratings are available through the http://www.fueleconomy.gov/ website. We can help you determine the qualifying MPG for both your trade in and the new vehicle you are considering.
3. Some dealers will advertise additional cash or rebates on top of the program. Be sure to read the fine print about what is necessary to qualify for additional dealer cash while shopping for vehicles.
4. Avoid anyone who offers a money order, check or direct deposit for the rebate. Car buyers can only benefit from CARS by getting the reimbursement amount reduced from the purchase price of the new vehicle by the dealership.
5. Protect your personal information and understand financial contracts before signing. When buying a vehicle from a dealership, check out the free BBB Reliability Report on the business at http://www.bbb.org/.
6. Due to financial situations, not all consumers will qualify for a new vehicle loan. Some consumers will be better off considering purchasing a newer model pre-owned vehicle instead of using the rebate on a new vehicle.
Here at Liberty, we want to be your auto dealership not just for a day, but for a lifetime. If it's a good deal for you, it's a good deal for us. Feel free to stop by and ask us about the program, or to take a look at Charlotte's finest selection of GMC and Pontiac inventory and our great pre-owned inventory as well. Questions about CARS? Call Greg Mongelli, our Sales Manager and resident CARS Specialist at 866-676-5559 or email him here.