Why the American Auto Industry needs a Bailout

Today while driving home I heard a radio commercial for Ford dealerships. The commercial was urging people that if they needed to get their Ford car fixed they should go nowhere else but a certified Ford dealer. The commercial was done as a car radio speaking to the driver saying statements like "you should know that no one knows your Ford like your Ford dealer!" and "make sure anyone who isn't Ford trained keeps their hands off of me."

I don't know who authorized this commercial line but I sure hope it was the Dealers instead of Ford itself (although it wouldn't surprise me if Ford made another dumb marketing move). If the Ford is trying to increase their revenue by ensuring that all repairs are done at Ford dealers it is being VERY short sighted. By making it seem like the only people who can repair a Ford are authorized Ford dealers they are actually raising perceived the cost of ownership. People won't bargain hunt or (god forbid) try to fix their car themselves if they believe anyone who is not Ford certified will make their explorer blow up. This means people will think twice next time they are buying a car and make sure they can get an automobile which can be fixed at any mechanic rather than something so touchy as to require a manufacturer certified attendant.

No wonder the American auto industry needs a bailout