Ford says new methods are helping improve quality

DETROIT - Ford wants to prove to consumers that it still believes that quality is Job One.

The company says it is instituting a new system in all of its North American assembly plants aimed at catching problems before the consumer does.

It's plan involves addressing the top 25 customer concerns for each vehicle while also eliminating hidden costs.

Early indications are the plan is working. The company spent 32 percent less last year on repairs covered by warranty.

An industry quality study last year showed Ford had the highest number of problems per vehicle among domestic automakers.