Buyers Feel Regret as Cash for Clunkers Final Tally Is Released

The total is just under the revised $3-billion budget for the four-week program.

The new survey by CNW Purchase Path, of Bandon, Oregon, finds that of nearly 1,000 Cash for Clunkers participants, 17 percent say they have some or serious doubts that they should have made the new-vehicle acquisition.

"Primary reason: They are now facing a $275-$350-per-month car payment that didn't exist prior to acquiring the car or truck," said the report. "That amount, they say, could negatively impact the total family budget more than expected prior to buying the new vehicle."

In contrast, buyers' remorse hits about 6-8 percent of new-vehicle buyers within a month, said CNW Purchase Path.

Inside Line says: You might not feel so good after you remove that Cash for Clunkers party hat. — Anita Lienert, Correspondent