The Ford company's unexpected billion dollar profit was due in part to local Ford dealers across the country. And while auto executives in Detroit celebrate their turnaround, Rock River Ford in Rockford has reason to be happy as well.

"Well our last quarter we were successful. We were up in all of our numbers year over year from 08 to 09, especially with Cash for Clunkers which was a huge push for us here at the Ford store." says Tony Arbisi, general sales manager at Rock River Ford.

Arbisi attributes the growing popularity of Ford vehicles to a corporate swing toward better fuel economy, higher quality, and attractive styles.

"I've had other cars, but Ford seems to have a little better quality to me. They are better looking, the ride is not bad. Compared to the Lincoln and Cadillac, the ride is just as good." says Thomas Zachery, a longtime Ford owner.

Arbisi says Ford should not have given up on the small car market a few years ago and he is glad to see they are finally offering competitive compact vehicles like the Focus. He says the profits stem from Ford executives finally listening to the American consumer.

"This increase is in North America, not just Europe and Asia and all the other countries the Ford sells to. It is in North America. They have not showed a profit like this since 2005 in North America." adds Arbisi.

Chrysler and GM's government money may have played some part in Ford's success. Arbisi notes that numerous customers have told him they are shopping Ford because the company didn't take Uncle Sam's bailouts.

Ford may have made one billion dollars in profits in the last quarter, but they are not out of the woods yet. The company is still almost $27 billion in debt.

Ford is also facing issues with the United Auto Workers. Both parties have failed to reach a new contract agreement. Ford is expected to hold to its current contract with the union, but many employees feel the company is healthy enough and doesn't need further concessions.