News that the federal government will be guaranteeing new cars brings auto repairs and warrantees to a whole new level. According to The Globe and Mail, the feds wisely want to protect consumers and parts suppliers in light of the potential bankruptcies of GM and Chrysler.
Industry Minister Tony Clement said Ottawa will stand behind the warranties of new cars sold between this week and the the conclusion of their restructuring efforts. How will it work? In the event of difficulties with engines and the like, perhaps troubled car owners will simply dial the office of the PMO.
Customer: "Hey, I just purchased a minivan. There's this really loud whistling sound in my engine, haven't a clue what it is, can you help me out?"
PMO:"Sure thing! Let's start with Tony -- see if he can shed some light."
Tony (Clement): "Yeah, whistling....That can be dicey. Hold on, I'm gonna get the head mechanic. Steve? Whistling in the engine. What do you think?"
Steve (Harper): "If I knew what that is, I would not be Prime Minister of Canada. My wife would be in this role, which she is not. Tell the customer not to assume that there is a problem with the car. Minivans usually perform very well, and we can rest assured that -- "
Customer hangs up.
New Customer: "Do you guys really stand behind the cars?"
PMO:"We certainly do. We have budgeted that way."
New Customer: "But it could cost taxpayers $185 million!"
PMO: "Hold on to that thought. I'm gonna get one of our top mechanics. Hey Jim, Line 4."
Jim (Flaherty): "If the caller is questioning whether or not the Government of Canada is standing behind the new vehicles, especially in light of the many other stimulative actions of the Department of Finance as articulated in the recent budget update, especially the home renovation tax credit, I can unequivocally state that we are in all respects supporting the guarantee of new cars sold as of this week. You will note that when Canada attended the G20, Canada emerged as a leader, and we will continue to lead -- "
Customer hangs up.
Good news for the taxpayer. If we had to speak to Steve, Tony and Jim to service our cars and check on our warranties, we just might not stay on the line. Net cost: Zero!
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