News item: "DETROIT (AP)

 

I heard the used Explorer market was flooded with lease returns. Their aggressive leasing tactics has artificially boosted Ford sales and now they are seeing the fall out. As the lessees are getting burned on the returns, they aren't about to write new contracts. Hence, that slice of their sales is dried up. You can get a loaded '97 with a residual of $22K for $18, ouch. The old "You can pay me now, or you can pay me later effect"

I'm sure the tire thing is playing a big part as well!

 

I think it's probably a combination of the tire recall and higher gas prices. After all, it costs about 40 bucks to fill one of these babies up. I paid $25 yesterday to fill up my wife's Accord. I'm glad it only costs about $18 to fill up the Stook.