LANSING – State Representative Jon Switalski (D-Warren) today encouraged residents to take advantage of the $1 billion federal "Cash for Clunkers" program to buy or lease an American-made, more fuel-efficient vehicle. The program, known as the Car Allowance Rebate System (CARS), is designed to energize the economy, boost auto sales and put safer, cleaner vehicles on the nation's roadways.
"This program will help Michigan create and protect local jobs and jumpstart our state's economy," Switalski said. "Hundreds of thousands of people buying new vehicles can provide a much-needed boost for our auto manufacturers – one that has the potential to get Michigan residents back on the job and help turn our state around. This is good news for our workers and consumers' pocketbooks."
Consumers can take advantage of the program between July 1 and Nov. 1, 2009, or when authorized funds are exhausted, whichever comes first. Those who qualify will receive a credit of $3,500 or $4,500 from the car dealer when they trade in their old vehicle and purchase or lease a new one. Trade-in vehicles must be less than 25 years old on the trade-in date and in most cases must get 18 or fewer miles per gallon.
More than 16,350 vehicles have already been purchased under the program, using just over
$68.9 million of the program's funds, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
"I encourage residents to take advantage of the CARS program and buy an America-made vehicle," Switalski said. "Residents will not only save money up-front, but by buying a newer, more fuel-efficient vehicle they will hold on to more of their hard-earned money down the road. This program offers a great opportunity to purchase a more fuel-efficient vehicle while supporting Michigan's workers and our auto industry."
To find out more about the CARS program and eligibility requirements, visit www.cars.gov.