Ford to cover car payments if buyer loses job

DEARBORN, Mich. -- The offer comes as auto sales have been battered by the recession and tight credit.

Ford said Tuesday it will cover payments of up to $700 each month for up to a year on any new Ford, Lincoln or Mercury vehicle if consumers lose their jobs. The program runs until June 1.

Hyundai Motor has been offering a deal that allows buyers to return a vehicle within a year if they can't make the payments due to a job loss or disability.

Ford is also offering zero percent financing on certain vehicles.