Buyer's Guide
Welcome to the Freeway Ford Buyer's Guide: our collection of quick tips for common-but not always anticipated scenarios. Life keeps you busy. That's why we're here to help. And this is just a starting point, so be sure to contact one of our sales specialists to find just the right solution for your needs.
I'm a first-time car-buyer. Where do I start?
- Start by creating a budget for how much car you can afford... but remember to include car maintenance and insurance costs as well. Insurance rates may vary depending on where you live and what kind of car you buy.
- Credit history can affect your finance rate. Be sure to get a credit report before you meet with a dealer to discuss financing.
- The more vehicles you consider, the wider range of prices you have to choose from.
- Look for factors like fuel economy and reliability.
- Even though you're buying, keep resale value in mind. But remember, depreciation will happen no matter what!
For more tips on this subject, email one of our specialists in this area.
I just bought my first car – how do I take care of it?
- Change your oil filter and oil religiously every 3000 miles.
- Handwashing is the best way to clean your car, after that consider a touchless, high-pressure water wash.
- Rotate the tires every 6,000 miles or follow the manufacturer's recommendation.
- Have the alignment and balance checked every 12,000 miles, or if you notice any unusual steering or vibration.
- If you bought a "lemon" that needs constant repairs, you may be protected by "lemon laws" in your state.
For more tips on this subject, email one of our specialists in this area.
How do I find a car that fits my growing family?
- Looks for the LATCH system (lower anchors and tethers for children), a new feature that make it easier to install a car seat.
- Make sure the car has enough room for adults and children, as well as extra items like strollers, groceries and diaper bags.
- Not all car seats fit into all cars - if you already have a car seat, measure how much room it requires in the rear-facing position and then make sure a new car can accommodate that.
- Look for safety aids in larger vehicles to help prevent backover injuries and deaths.
- Talk to friends and relatives who already have family cars and learn from their updated experience.
For more tips on this subject, email one of our specialists in this area.
My car was just totaled! Now what?
- Is it really totaled? Check with your insurance company, it depends on whether the cost of repairs exceeds the cash value of the car.
- A newer car with more extensive damage may not actually be totaled, simply because it has more monetary value.
- Decide early on if you want to keep your car and if you have money for repairs. Even if you repair it, your insurance company may require it to pass inspections.
- If you're not happy with your insurance settlement, you can hire an independent appraiser to assess the car's value.
For more tips on this subject, email one of our specialists in this area.
