Missouri is among 39 states that have reached a settlement with Ford Motor Credit Company over its “Red Carpet” leasing program. The program came under scrutiny when investigators learned that early termination of vehicle leases resulted in charges that were sometimes higher than the actual balance owed on the lease. Ford and Lincoln Mercury dealers would discharge the lease obligation to Ford Credit, but would keep the extra amount charged to consumers. Ford Credit and its dealers have agreed to change the “Red Carpet” lease policy and to make restitution to consumers affected by what Attorney General Jay Nixon calls “this deceptive practice.”