Cash for Clunkers brings record business

Record sales and on-lot traffic have Anderson-area car dealerships working overtime these days.

In fact, the government's "Cash for Clunkers" has more new cars leaving the lot than most who work in the business can remember.

"Our business was already good, but this is nothing short of amazing," said Lynn Smith, sales manager for Piedmont Chrysler Jeep Dodge in Anderson. "We've seen about a 70 percent increase in customers here." Smith said the time limits the government put on the program has created a sense of urgency which has contributed to the crowds.

In addition, Chrysler is matching the government's program dollar-for-dollar on many cars, trucks and Jeeps.

There are certain restrictions and there is a formula for determining how much cash a clunker can receive in trade.

Here is how it works:

1. The vehicle must be no more than 25 years old.

2. You must have owned the vehicle at least one year

3. To receive the $4,500 discount, you must purchase a new car or truck which is rated at least 10 mpg higher than your trade in

4. To receive the $3,500 discount, you must purchase a new car or truck which is rated at least 5 mpg higher than your trade in

5. The current deadline for the program is November 1.

Steve Henderson, used car manager for Ralph Hayes Toyota of Anderson, said the program has had a "huge, positive response" at his dealership.

"We have seen our best month in history," said Jeff Hawkins, general manager of Kia of Anderson. "This has been a great program for our customers and our business."

The used cars traded in under the program will be destroyed for scrap.