The NHTSA has updated the official website for Car Allowance Rebate System (CARS) which was funded by the signing of the Cash for Clunkers bill.  http://www.cars.gov  

The changes on the website reflect the NHTSA’s efforts to meet the needs of US consumers who have questions about the CARS program. 

The website should be expanding its functionality over the coming weeks to also accommodate car dealer registration. Consumers do not need to register for the program online.

CARS.GOV Official Website

The recent changes to http://cars.gov, the only official website for the CARS program, included:

1. New “Submit a Question” button.
2. New logo on the home page to include “Official Government Site”.
3. New menu structure for easier navigation and access to program information.
4. Consumer support phone number: 1-866-CARS-7891
5. Button to direct consumers to http://www.safercar.gov
6. Hotline for Media-only inquiries: 202-366-9550

(“Submit a Question” sample screenshot design on http://cars.gov)

We applaud the website enhancements to the official website so that consumers can call or email the NHTSA for answers on specific questions.  At the time we are writing this post, when we clicked on the “Submit a Question” button, we were not directed to a place where we could enter in a question.  We will check back on this new feature this week.

Cash for Clunkers Questions

Consumers will not be the only ones calling the new NHTSA hot-line or sending in questions via email. Car dealers are being hit with a large number of questions that are not yet clarified in the current information provide on http://cars.gov.  Consumers and car dealers are reminded that the NHTSA will be publishing a final set of rules and procedures around July 23, 2009.

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