To the Editor:

Thanks for your coverage of dealer Earl Stewart ("Dealer's hard line on recalls is costing him," Sept. 26).

And thanks to Stewart for barring the sale of used vehicles under safety recalls until all repairs are complete.

Yes, I realize that isn't required by law. But, based on the story, it seems that Stewart holds a higher standard than simple compliance with the law.

My only critique would be that the headline might have said: "Dealer's hard line on recalls protects his customers and proves his integrity."

I am glad to see that Stewart's policy is shown as a "best practice" and hope other dealers will follow suit. And perhaps the factories will recognize that and support the dealers appropriately. (The factories aren't shy about holding suppliers accountable for quality problems; they should support the dealers who protect their mutual customers.)

BRAD PRITTS Ann Arbor, Mich. The writer is a consulting engineer who specializes in quality and works with automotive suppliers.