Cash for Clunkers: Success is a matter of perspective

It would be nice to think that we've finally heard the last of the Cash for Clunkers program. Unfortunately it seems like every day yet another story emerges to remind us why Congress should resist the temptation to meddle in the free market. Maybe politicians, like doctors, should take an oath to first do no harm ...

Program became 'nightmare' for dealers, customers
By Michael McCord
August 23, 2009 6:00 AM

When FS Gilbert of Rollinsford went to a local dealer in Dover to take advantage of the "Cash for Clunkers" program, he was quickly approved to trade in his 2000 Windstar van for a more fuel-efficient automobile.

Nearly a month later, Gilbert will take possession of his new ride today. According to Gilbert, the Dover dealership said it had still not received approval from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration but was going to release the car to him. Gilbert is not alone in his frustration on the bumpy road to a new car — as of Thursday, 90 to 95 percent of applications nationwide had yet to get either NHTSA approval for their deals or been paid the $3,500 to $4,500 rebate. (more)