I don't think the loans were a "secret". I remember hearing that Ford was taking loans. The loans were a normal part of operations at the auto companies. As it was literally impossible for companies to get these from the failed banking system, the government cut out the middle man. If you feel it is underhanded or dishonest to say they weren't "bailed out" because they were loaned money I guess I don't understand. I guess every company should include in all of their ads that they need loans to operate.