Ford and GM offer job-loss incentives to help boost sales

In an effort to stimulate car sales and boost consumer confidence, Ford and GM have announced their job-loss customer protection plans. Both incentives, similar to the Hyundai Assurance and AutoNation programs, are an effort to help consumers worried about job stability and making monthly car payments.

Ford’s program, called the Ford Advantage Plan, will cover payments of up to $700 a month for 12 months on any new Ford, Lincoln, or Mercury if customers lose their jobs. In addition, Ford announced zero-percent financing on select vehicles in their lineup. The program will run until June 1st.

General Motor’s program, called GM Total Confidence, will cover payments of up to $500 a month for nine months if you lose your job for economic reasons. In addition, during the first two years of ownership, GM will help protect the retail value of the vehicle at trade-in time if the outstanding principal loan is more than the NADA Clean Retail Value. All vehicles will be backed by a five-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty with roadside assistance and alternate transportation should your vehicle break down. The GM program is available on vehicles purchased from April 1st through April 30th.

The Hyundai program has produced a bump in sales; GM and Ford are hoping it will work for them, as well.

—Liza Barth

Comments

[Melonie]

What about losing my job and missing two payment, but can pay the third...I really don't want to lose my car....does this qualify?