Whether you are in the market to buy yourself a used car or you simply want to trade up and switch out what you are driving now, you have quite the task on your hands. Why is this? Because, choosing a used car can be a tough decision. You need to take time to decipher between the brands available and you need to know what features your used car is going to sport. If that wasn’t enough, you also need to make sure the used car you choose is going to meet your needs for years to come. We tell you here how to choose the right used Ford car for sale.
From inspecting a used car down to test driving and buying it, you, as the consumer, must make many choices. When you sit and think about the type of used car you want, you have many options to include different brands, colors, and types. You also need to consider the following:
- Is the car safe for me? What about my family’s safety?
- Does the car come highly rated?
- What types of features are included, and can I customize the car?
- Will the car’s price fit into my budget?
Even though you may seem quite overwhelmed right now, you will find that as you shop around for a used car, the pieces start to fit and make sense. One of the top-rated car manufacturers on the market is Ford and they have a beautiful line of cars, SUVs, and trucks you can choose from.
Below, this article will dive deeper into why a used Ford car for sale is the perfect choice for you and how purchasing one can be the right decision for you and your needs.
Used Ford for Sale: Tell Me More About Ford Motor Company
Ford Motor Company was first incorporated in 1903 and is headquartered out of Dearborn, Michigan. The automaker has been the top in its chain since its incorporation and continues to provide both modern and luxury cars to the US and worldwide. The founder, Henry Ford, was best known for not only founding Ford but producing the first automobile for Americans to drive that was not only functional, but affordable as well.
Typically, just referred to as Ford, the Ford Motor Company has a focus on making their cars better year over year. Their mission is as follows, “People working together as a lean, global enterprise to make people’s lives better through automotive and mobility leadership.”
Ford has placed an emphasis on making sure that they provide great vehicles to their customers. They believe this is the foundation of their business and what gives them the advantage over other businesses. Ford continues to expand its line of vehicles with the next one being better than the previous and their manufacturing expansion is the largest in five decades.
“Go Further”
The company has a motto of “Go Further” and they continue to achieve that year over year as they help the community and serve the needs of the people. Ford has committed itself to global challenges such as environmental sustainability and economic development. Community service is an integral part of the Ford backbone.
Ford has continued to grow over the years and produce quality cars, trucks, and SUVs that individuals and companies have come to know and love. Trusting in the name Ford is what drives the company. Ford has come a long way since 1903 and in 2018, Ford celebrated its production of the 10 millionth Mustang, which is one of the best-selling sports cars in America and the world’s best-selling sports car for three years straight.
With a focus on modernization, sustainability, and affordability, it is no wonder that Ford continues to sell many vehicles year after year. In October of 2018, Ford sold a total of 192,616 vehicles. In addition, the F-series of Ford trucks surpassed a milestone of 70,000 trucks sold for the seventh consecutive month in September.
Think a Used Ford is the Right Choice for You? Here’s Why It Probably Is
If you have your eyes set on a specific used Ford car, then you probably want to know more about it and whether it is the right choice for you. There are many reasons why a used car is the right choice and many consumers find that their money is better spent when they purchase a used car too.
Sometimes, consumers do sit on the fence about whether they should jump in with both feet forward for the used Ford car or a brand-new one. While a new car is an attractive option, after all, no one has driven it, you should take a step back and evaluate BOTH options fairly before you make any decision.
According to Kelley Blue Book, the average price for a new car has risen about 4% in January 2018. What this means for you is that the price of a NEW car has steadily risen and has increased by about $1,360 making the average cost of a vehicle about $36,270 in January 2018. With the price of a new car in mind, the average cost of a used car is about $19,657. This is a price difference of $16,613. Is a new car worth THAT much more?
So, we have made the point that a used car is significantly cheaper than a new car, but, why else should someone consider a used car? Let’s look.
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You Don’t Have to Worry about Depreciation
Okay, let’s face the cold hard truth here – cars lose their value. It is called depreciation and it happens to ALL new cars. Fortunately, if you purchase a used car, you do not have to worry about this as the individual who bought the car new took the initial hit.
When it comes to depreciation, you need to know that the moment you drive the car off the lot, it loses 11% of its value IMMEDIATELY. Within the first year of owning that new car, it loses about 30% of its value and up to 50% within the first three years.
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You Can Get MORE Bang for Your Money
Shopping for a used Ford car is fun and it has its perks too. One of those perks is that you can get MORE bang for your money. Thanks to the above-mentioned issue – depreciation – you can make your money go much further when you buy a used car.
When buying a new car, your budget may only allow you to choose the base model or lowest trim package but with a used car, you can step foot into a top of the line model or luxury edition. Not only will you get the features you want, you will have some extras in there you did not expect too.
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Used Car Purchases Are LESS Risky Than Before
Previously, purchasing yourself a used vehicle came with a lot of risk involved. Whether you shopped at a dealership or you went the private party route, you had to take the individual at their word that there was nothing wrong with the car.
Used cars got a bad rap for a while as individuals would sell them and say nothing was wrong and the consumer would have a huge repair bill two months later due to a blow head gasket or engine.
In today’s time, used car purchases are much LESS risky than they were before, and this is thanks to vehicle history reports. You can view the entire history of the used Ford you are considering before you even drive it. These history reports allow you to see when the vehicle had maintenance performed, if it was involved in an accident, and whether any major repairs were done.
A vehicle history report can take the guesswork out of whether the used Ford car you are looking at is going to be a good purchase or a headache.
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Safety of the Cars Have Improved
Purchasing a used vehicle may have been out of the question years ago when cars were less safe than they are now. Often, consumers would avoid purchasing used cars because they lacked the newer and modern safety features. Fortunately, the average age of a used car now is only a few years younger than the newest model on the market, which means you can still enjoy all the safety features.
Many of the most common safety features found in used cars today include:
- Anti-lock brakes
- Front, passenger, and side-curtain air bags
- Electronic stability control
Cars manufactured after 2009 have the above safety features already in them, so you do not even have to bat an eye and worry about how safe you and your family will be. Stability control was mandated by the National Highway Safety Administration to be a standard feature in ALL cars manufactured from 2012 and on. Because accidents are a risk we take when driving the NHSA wanted to help consumers feel safer in their vehicles which is why they mandated the feature be present. Electronic stability control is responsible for helping reduce the risk of single vehicle accidents.
Used Ford Auctions
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Is a Used Ford Car Worth Buying?
Of course, it is. Ford’s are known for their dependability and reliability, even over decades of use. Therefore, buying yourself a used Ford car for sale is one of the best decisions you could make.
If you need some more convincing, let’s look at some of the awards that Ford has won over the last few years for price.
2014 Best Car for the Money Awards:
- Ford Fiesta was named the best subcompact and hatchback
- Fusion was named the best hybrid
- Edge was named the best 2-row midsize SUV
2016 Best Car for the Money Awards:
- Ford Fusion was named best hybrid
2017 Best Car for the Money Awards:
- Ford F-150 was named best full-size truck
- Ford Expedition was named best large SUV
2018 Best Car for the Money Awards:
- Edge was named the best 2-row midsize SUV
Should You Purchase a Used Ford Car?
As you can see, Ford has won numerous awards for the price of their vehicles over the last few years.
While price is always a determining factor as to whether you buy a car or not, we will explore some of the other reasons WHY you should choose a used Ford car and what makes them amazing.
Below, we will look at several main points to help you understand why you should choose a used Ford over other makes and models on the market simply based on Ford’s safety features, fuel economy, maintenance requirements, and price.
Ford Safety Features
Deciding on the type of car you want to drive yourself and family around in is no decision that can be taken lightly. You want to know that the car is safe and that if anything were to happen while you were inside, you would be protected. Unfortunately, some cars are not as safe as others, so it is vital that you consider the safety of ANY car you plan to purchase whether it is new or used.
It can be a difficult task to sort through all the safety features of cars and you may be left wondering what it all means to you and how it can protect you in the event of an accident. As we mentioned briefly above, all used cars circa 2009 and newer come with electronic stability control, air bags in the front, passenger, and sides of the vehicle, and anti-lock brakes. But, are these the only safety features built into the car?
Ford Motor Company takes the safety of its consumers seriously and has created and equipped their cars with some of the best features so that you can drive around town without a worry. In fact, safety is one of the core values and priorities within the company and each vehicle is manufactured with consumer safety at the forefront.
When determining the safety of a vehicle, you should always look at the crash test ratings and any awards the specific car or manufacturer has received. This can tell you a lot about what to expect and below, we will discuss safety ratings and crash tests in more depth.
Ford Safety Features
New and used Fords come with a variety of safety features designed to keep you safe in your vehicle and provide you with the peace of mind you desire while out on the road. All safety features equipped in Ford vehicles are custom fit and engineered to provide all drivers and passengers with the safety they expect, need, want, and desire from their car. Ford has placed an emphasis on protecting its passengers when impending danger is nearby such as an accident.
One of the nice things about Ford used cars is that they come with many of the same modern safety features that the newer models have as well. Since Ford wants to keep its consumers safe inside of their vehicle, many of the safety features focus on the avoidance of an accident.
Below, we will talk about each one of the different safety features that Ford offers to give you a better idea of what you can expect from your used Ford.
Roll Stability Control
Roll stability control or RSC, sometimes called AdvanceTrac, makes use of gyroscopic sensors placed in the vehicle to measure movements of the car. This system works to help the driver control the vehicle when there is a risk that a rollover could occur.
Electronic Stability Control
Electronic stability control or ESC is standard in all used cars from 2012 and up. You will most likely find ESC in 2009 and higher as well. This system always works to help reduce your chances of an accident by assisting the driver in maintaining control of the vehicle. This system kicks in when the driver makes an abrupt or emergency maneuver.
BeltMinder
The BeltMinder system from Ford is a nifty little system that was offered in vehicles starting in 1999. This system will set off an audible alarm in the form of a chime to remind you to buckle up. The system also flashes a visual aid on the dashboard every 30 seconds in conjunction with the chime. The BeltMinder system will continue with audible and visual aids until either the driver fastens their seatbelt or when five minutes has passed.
Studies have revealed that the BeltMinder system has been effective in encouraging seatbelt use.
Safety Canopy
The Safety Canopy system has been in use since 2002 and is designed to provide drivers and passengers with additional protection when involved in an accident. The system automatically deploys side-curtain air bags in a side-impact or roll-over accident. As of 2010, ALL Ford vehicles include this safety feature.
TPMS or Tire Pressure Monitoring System
The tire pressure monitoring system or TPMS works to monitor how much pressure is within your tires. The system will alert you audibly and visually when the tire pressure has fallen within a range that is low.
Adaptive Front Lighting
Being able to see on the road is crucial to avoiding accidents and knowing where you are heading or if surprises are around the corner. However, it can be difficult to see when your headlights only face forward, and you need to make a left or right turn.
Fortunately, Ford saw a need and created adaptive front lighting to help. With this system, your headlights offer adjustable angles, swivel lighting, and more to ensure that you can see no matter the angle or driving condition you face on the road.
Occupant Classification System
The occupant classification system works to determine what occupants are in the vehicle and scale the control of the air bag based on the passenger’s size. The system will suppress the deployment of the air bag in situations where the passenger is under the required criteria to deploy the air bag or when the seat is empty.
SPACE Architecture
The SPACE Architecture design is probably one of the most unique that Ford has to offer. The makeup of this architecture includes crush zones on the vehicle that work to direct energy from an accident AWAY from the passengers or driver.
Ford Motor Company is always working to improve the architecture of their vehicles and continues to reinvent vehicle sub-system models as well to ensure complete driver and passenger safety.
Protection in a Used Ford Vehicle
With all the above safety features packed into your used Ford, there is no reason to question the safety you will receive. Drivers from all over have come to know and love the Ford brand as one of the safest and reliable manufacturers in the automotive industry.
Is a Used Ford as Safe as It Seems to Be?
Now that we have introduced you to all the safety features of a used Ford, you may be wondering if the car is as safe as it seems. In addition, you likely want to know if the safety features work as good as they sound. After all, if the features do not work, then your used car would be unsafe to drive and be in should an accident occur, right?
Ford Motor Company has included the safety of all consumers into their business and they work hard to ensure all vehicles are designed and manufactured to be as safe as possible.
Safety is the number one priority at Ford Motor Company and here are some stats to back up that claim:
- 60% of all Ford vehicles in the US have received an overall safety rating of 5 stars
- 69% of all Ford vehicles in Europe have received an overall safety rating of 5 stars
- 36% of all Ford vehicles in China have received an overall safety rating of 5 stars
Below, we will look at the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration crash ratings for some of the most popular Ford vehicles.
2017 Ford F-150
- Front driver side frontal crash rating: 5 stars
- Front passenger side frontal crash rating: 5 stars
- Overall side crash rating: 5 stars
- Rollover crash rating: 4 stars
2017 Ford Explorer
- Front driver side frontal crash rating: 4 stars
- Front passenger side frontal crash rating: 5 stars
- Overall side crash rating: 5 stars
- Rollover crash rating: 4 stars
2016 Ford Escape
- Front driver side frontal crash rating: 4 stars
- Front passenger side frontal crash rating: 4 stars
- Overall side crash rating: 5 stars
- Rollover crash rating: 4 stars
2016 Ford Focus
- Front driver side frontal crash rating: 5 stars
- Front passenger side frontal crash rating: 4 stars
- Overall side crash rating: 5 stars
- Rollover crash rating: 4 stars
2015 Ford Expedition
- Front driver side frontal crash rating: 5 stars
- Front passenger side frontal crash rating: 5 stars
- Overall side crash rating: 5 stars
- Rollover crash rating: 3 stars
2015 Ford Fusion
- Front driver side frontal crash rating: 5 stars
- Front passenger side frontal crash rating: 4 stars
- Overall side crash rating: 4 stars
- Rollover crash rating: 4 stars
2014 Ford F-250
- Front driver side frontal crash rating: 4 stars
- Front passenger side frontal crash rating: 4 stars
- Overall side crash rating: 5 stars
- Rollover crash rating: 3 stars
2014 Ford Mustang
- Front driver side frontal crash rating: 4 stars
- Front passenger side frontal crash rating: 5 stars
- Overall side crash rating: 4 stars
- Rollover crash rating: 5 stars
Fuel Economy in a Used Ford Car
As you shop for your new-used car, you want to make sure you pay attention to the fuel economy of that car. The fuel economy is the distance that your vehicle can travel in relation to how much fuel or gas is consumed by the vehicle. Therefore, the fuel economy tells you how many miles you can go per gallon of gas you place in your car.
It is important to know exactly how much gas your car uses as this will help you better determine the cost of your vehicle over its lifespan. If you choose a used car that only receives 10 miles PER gallon and you have a 13-gallon fuel tank, that means your car can go 130 miles before you need to fill the gas tank up completely again.
You want to aim for used cars that have a good fuel economy and receive the most miles to the gallon as possible to prevent frequent trips to the gas station.
New and Used Ford Vehicles and Their Respective Fuel Economy
Below, we will look at some of the most popular models of Ford vehicles and compare how many miles per gallon they receive. This information can help you make an informed choice about which used Ford car is right for you.
Ford Escape
- 2018 Ford Escape – 23 city and 30 highway
- 2014 Ford Escape – 23 city and 32 highway
- 2010 Ford Escape – 22 city and 28 highway
- 2006 Ford Escape – 24 city and 29 highway
Ford Explorer
- 2018 Ford Explorer – 19 city and 27 highway
- 2014 Ford Explorer – 20 city and 28 highway
- 2010 Ford Explorer – 14 city and 20 highway
- 2006 Ford Explorer – 15 city and 21 highway
Ford Edge
- 2018 Ford Edge – 21 city and 29 highway
- 2014 Ford Edge – 21 city and 30 highway
- 2010 Ford Edge – 18 city and 25 highway
- 2007 Ford Edge – 18 city and 25 highway
Ford F-150
- 2018 Ford F-150 – 20 city and 26 highway
- 2014 Ford F-150 – 17 city and 23 highway
- 2010 Ford F-150 – 15 city and 21 highway
- 2006 Ford F-150 – 16 city and 20 highway
Ford Focus
- 2018 Ford Focus – 30 city and 40 highway
- 2014 Ford Focus – 27 city and 37 highway
- 2010 Ford Focus – 24 city and 35 highway
- 2006 Ford Focus – 26 city and 34 highway
Ford Mustang
- 2018 Ford Mustang – 21 city and 32 highway
- 2014 Ford Mustang – 19 city and 31 highway
- 2010 Ford Mustang – 18 city and 26 highway
- 2006 Ford Mustang – 19 city and 28 highway
Ford Ranked Top in Fuel Efficient Vehicles
One of the ways you can judge is a vehicle has a good fuel economy is to look at consumer data and awards from reputable sources. Ford has consistently come out on top when it comes to fuel economy and offers you great fuel economy no matter the used vehicle you choose.
According to Kelley Blue Book, the 2009 Ford Escape was ranked #1 out of 17 other vehicles as the most fuel-efficient SUV of that year. In 2014, the KBB also ranked the 2014 Ford Fusion as the most fuel-efficient sedan for that year.
Forbes rated the 2015 Ford Focus (Electric model) as one of the vehicles with the best fuel economy for that year. On that same list was the Ford C-Max and the Ford Fusion.
In 2016, TheStreet posted an article about the most fuel-efficient vehicles in 2016 that are NOT electric. The Ford Fusion was ranked one of the most fuel-efficient midsize cars along with the Ford C-Max Hybrid which took the title for large cars and the Ford F-150 which took the title for standard-sized pickup trucks.
Ford also took a top spot in 2017 for one of the most fuel-efficient full-size pickups with the 2017 Ford F-150 ranking on top. Again in 2018, you can expect to see Ford ranked high with the 2018 Ford C-Max and 2018 Ford Fusion taking spots as cars that receives the best gas mileage.
Maintenance and Service Required on Used Ford Cars
Your vehicle, whether new or used, needs to be maintained and serviced on a regular basis. You cannot simply drive your car around and just hope that it lasts for well over 200,000 miles or more without some service, repairs, and maintenance along the way.
To keep your used Ford vehicle in good condition, drivable, and safe, you will need to adhere to Ford’s strict maintenance schedule and always take your vehicle in for service should a repair be needed, or you experience trouble or difficulty with the vehicle.
If you are someone who does not drive your vehicle a lot, then the maintenance and service schedule should be used only as a reference and you should have your vehicle serviced and maintained based on its age.
Some of the most common maintenance and services needed for your used Ford vehicle include:
- Oil change
- Fluid refill and top off
- Transmission, power steering, radiator, and other flushes
- Filter changes
- Tire rotation and balance
- Wheel alignments
While you likely already know that an oil change is required for your car, you probably did not know that the 3,000-mile rule is no longer applicable. In fact, most newer cars can go much longer than that. It is important to refer to your owner’s manual to learn more about when your car needs maintenance and how often.
Recommended Ford Service and Maintenance Schedule
A used Ford car is not only reliable, but it will last for many years if you take care of it and have the recommended services and maintenance performed. Fortunately, many Ford vehicles do offer an alert on the dashboard when it is time for you to have service performed. This light is a wonderful indication that something may be wrong with your used car or that it is simply due for service.
Even though you will have a light reminder that service or maintenance is needed, you should never ignore the recommended schedule for your used Ford car. Below, we will talk about some of the milestones of recommended service and what is performed at this service interval.
10,000 Miles
- Change oil and replace the filter
- Inspect and rotate the tires
- Check exhaust system, cooling system, and hoses
- Inspect brake pads, shoes, drums, and rotors for wear
- Add fluid to the transmission, if needed
- Multi-point inspection of the vehicle
- Lubricate all joints, linkage, drive shafts, and more
20,000 Miles
- Change oil and replace the filter
- Inspect and rotate the tires
- Replace the cabin air filter
- Inspect exhaust system, cooling system, and hoses
- Inspect brake pads, shoes, drums, and rotors for wear
- Add fluid to the transmission, if needed
- Multi-point inspection of the vehicle
- Lubricate all joints, linkage, drive shafts, and more
30,000 Miles
- Change oil and replace the filter
- Inspect and rotate the tires
- Replace the engine air filter
- Inspect exhaust system, cooling system, and hoses
- Inspect brake pads, shoes, drums, and rotors for wear
- Add fluid to the transmission, if needed
- Multi-point inspection of the vehicle
- Lubricate all joints, linkage, drive shafts, and more
40,000 Miles
- Change oil and replace the filter
- Inspect and rotate the tires
- Replace the cabin air filter
- Inspect exhaust system, cooling system, and hoses
- Inspect brake pads, shoes, drums, and rotors for wear
- Add fluid to the transmission, if needed
- Multi-point inspection of the vehicle
- Lubricate all joints, linkage, drive shafts, and more
60,000 Miles
- Change oil and replace the filter
- Inspect and rotate the tires
- Replace the cabin air filter
- Replace engine air filter
- Inspect exhaust system, cooling system, and hoses
- Inspect brake pads, shoes, drums, and rotors for wear
- Add fluid to the transmission, if needed
- Multi-point inspection of the vehicle
- Lubricate all joints, linkage, drive shafts, and more
80,000 Miles
- Change oil and replace the filter
- Inspect and rotate the tires
- Replace the cabin air filter
- Inspect exhaust system, cooling system, and hoses
- Inspect brake pads, shoes, drums, and rotors for wear
- Add fluid to the transmission, if needed
- Multi-point inspection of the vehicle
- Lubricate all joints, linkage, drive shafts, and more
90,000 Miles
- Change oil and replace the filter
- Inspect and rotate the tires
- Replace the engine air filter
- Check exhaust system, cooling system, and hoses
- Inspect brake pads, shoes, drums, and rotors for wear
- Add fluid to the transmission, if needed
- Multi-point inspection of the vehicle
- Lubricate all joints, linkage, drive shafts, and more
100,000 Miles
- Change oil and replace the filter
- Replace spark plugs, if needed
- Inspect and rotate the tires
- Replace the cabin air filter
- Inspect the accessory drive belt
- Check exhaust system, cooling system, and hoses
- Inspect brake pads, shoes, drums, and rotors for wear
- Add fluid to the transmission, if needed
- Change out the orange coolant
- Multi-point inspection of the vehicle
- Lubricate all joints, linkage, drive shafts, and more
120,000 Miles
- Change oil and replace the filter
- Inspect and rotate the tires
- Replace the engine air filter
- Replace the air cabin filter
- Inspect the accessory drive belt
- Check exhaust system, cooling system, and hoses
- Inspect brake pads, shoes, drums, and rotors for wear
- Add fluid to the transmission, if needed
- Multi-point inspection of the vehicle
- Lubricate all joints, linkage, drive shafts, and more
140,000 Miles
- Change oil and replace the filter
- Inspect and rotate the tires
- Replace the air cabin filter
- Inspect the accessory drive belt
- Check exhaust system, cooling system, and hoses
- Inspect brake pads, shoes, drums, and rotors for wear
- Add fluid to the transmission, if needed
- Multi-point inspection of the vehicle
- Lubricate all joints, linkage, drive shafts, and more
150,000 Miles
- Change oil and replace the filter
- Replace accessory drive belts
- Inspect and rotate the tires
- Replace the engine air filter
- Check exhaust system, cooling system, and hoses
- Inspect brake pads, shoes, drums, and rotors for wear
- Change automatic transmission fluid
- Change out the orange coolant
- Multi-point inspection of the vehicle
- Lubricate all joints, linkage, drive shafts, and more
Ford Protect Premium Maintenance Plan
Since maintenance is an integral part of how your vehicle functions, Ford offers their Protect Premium Maintenance Plan for purchase. This protection plan provides you with routine oil changes and it also covers preventative care, vehicle inspections, and replacement of any wear and tear items on the vehicle.
Often, consumers wonder if they should purchase a maintenance plan and the decision is truly up to you. A used car that is properly maintained will work better and run more efficiently than one that is not maintained, but this does not necessarily mean you need a plan to tell you that.
Some of the benefits of regular maintenance on your car include:
- Unexpected breakdown or failure of parts
- Ensures maximum fuel economy and operation of the car
- Improves your resale value of the car
- Ensures the vehicle is safe and reliable
The Ford Protect Premium Maintenance Plan covers the following services and replacements:
- Wiper blades
- Spark plugs
- Engine oil and oil filter changes
- Diesel exhaust fluid fill
- Engine belts
- Brake pads
- Multi-point inspections
- Engine coolant clamps, hoses, and o-rings
- Clutch discs
- Struts and shock absorbers
- Tire rotations
The Ford multi-point inspection includes checks of the following:
- Engine air filter
- Exhaust system
- Operation of the horn
- Exterior and interior lights
- Tires
- Accessory drive belts
- Clutch
- Fluid and oil leaks
- Windshield washer sprayer, wiper blades, and wiper operation
- Radiator
- Air conditioning and heating lines
- Windshield
- Struts and shocks
- Steering links and steering system
The inspection also includes fluid level checks and top off for:
- Brake reservoir
- Transmission
- Coolant recovery reservoir
- Diesel exhaust fluid
- Window washer system
- Power steering reservoir
Keep an Eye Out for the Maintenance Light
One of the nice things about newer model cars, 2009 and up, is that they are often equipped with an oil change light and maintenance required light. These lights will help tell you when you need to change your oil, filter, or have maintenance performed on the car.
While you should make note of when your owner’s manual and manufacturer recommend oil changes, it is easy to forget. When you turn on your used Ford, you will notice the maintenance and oil light indicator come on for a couple seconds and then go off. If the light stays on, then a filter or oil change is needed.
One thing you do want to keep in mind is that these lights come on when the system is at about 10% to 15% of its oil life left, so you do not have to speed to the local mechanic shop right away but bear in mind that you will need to have maintenance performed. If your dashboard indicates CHANGE ENGINE OIL SOON, Ford has indicated this means you have 5% of your oil life left. If the dashboard indicates OIL CHANGE REQUIRED, Ford has indicated this means your oil life is at 0%.
Average Estimated Costs for Repairs on a Used Ford Vehicle
The amount you pay to replace or repair parts on your used Ford can vary greatly depending on the type of service needed, the availability of the part, and the extent of the issue you may be facing. Often, repairs and maintenance are minor and on the cheaper end of the spectrum, but serious repairs may be needed at some point in time and you want to be prepared for the costs you may face.
Below, we will provide you with some of the costs associated with the most common services and maintenance required on a used Ford vehicle.
- Oil change on a used Ford Explorer ranges from $120 to $150.
- Brake pad replacement on a used Ford Explorer ranges from $150 to $250.
- Starter replacement on a used Ford Explorer ranges from $315 to $400.
- Battery replacement on a used Ford Explorer ranges from $160 to $180.
- Tire rotation on a used Ford Explorer ranges from $30 to $50.
- Wheel alignment on a used Ford Explorer ranges from $20 to $100.
Price of Used Ford Cars for Sale
We have mentioned it before and will mention it again – price is a deciding factor when it comes to purchasing a used Ford car for sale. But, don’t be fooled by the prices you see on the sticker because they may not be a true representation of the actual cost of the car.
First, when you view the price on the sticker, determine what the model car is. For example, the Ford Escape alone has four different model types and the price grows as you scale up from the base trim line.
Secondly, as you shop for and look at the price, consider if you are looking at the price of a new Ford car or a used Ford car. The cost of a new car is going to be significantly higher than that of a used one.
Lastly, as you do look at the price of a used Ford, think about the type of vehicle you want. SUVs are more expensive than cars but may be less expensive than a truck.
Price is affected by many factors and often, the sticker price does not include discounts and it does not include the cost to own the used car either.
When looking at a new Ford vehicle, the price can range significantly depending on the model you choose. For example, the lowest-priced Ford is the Fiesta and it starts out at around $14,260 while the most expensive Ford vehicle is the Ford Mustang GT which start out around $59,140.
To help you better understand what the price of a new Ford vehicle will cost you vs. the price of a used Ford vehicle, we will look at the F-150 and the Fusion below.
Brand New Ford F-150 vs. Used Ford F-150
- A brand-new Ford F-150 has an MSRP of $28,155 to $67,135.
- A used 2015 Ford F-150 has an MSRP of about $20,00 to $26,000.
- A used 2012 Ford F-150 has an MSRP of about $16,400 to $20,850.
As you can see above, a used F-150 costs significantly less than that of a brand new one, but it is important to also note that in the case of the F-150, the truck holds its value over the years, which is a bonus for you.
Brand New Ford Fusion vs. Used Ford Fusion
- A brand-new Ford Fusion has an MSRP of $22,840 to $40,015.
- A used 2015 Ford Fusion has an MSRP of about $13,000 to $15,900.
- A used 2012 Ford Fusion has an MSRP of about $6,200 to $7,900.
The Ford Fusion is a great example of how much cheaper a used car can be. In fact, a 2015 model is only 4 years old and is roughly $9,000 LESS than the newer model. What a great deal you are getting!
Estimated Cost to Own Popular Used Ford Vehicles
Now that you have a good idea of pricing for both new and used Ford vehicles, we are going to delve a bit more into what it would cost you to own some of the most popular used Ford vehicles.
The cost to own comes from the Edmunds True Cost to Own calculator, which can be used for any type of vehicle. If you want to try it out for yourself or you have a different Ford vehicle in mind, don’t hesitate to give it a go.
2012 Ford Explorer
The estimated true cost to own a 2012 Ford Explorer over a five-year period is $36,910. Some of the most notable costs over the five-year period include:
- Maintenance: $8,305
- Repairs: $3,085
- Fuel: $10,591
2013 Ford Escape
The estimated true cost to own a 2013 Ford Escape over a five-year period is $29,357. Some of the most notable costs over the five-year period include:
- Maintenance: $5,710
- Repairs: $2,927
- Fuel: $8,473
2014 Ford F-150
The estimated true cost to own a 2014 Ford F-150 over a five-year period is $39,470. Some of the most notable costs over the five-year period include:
- Maintenance: $7,001
- Repairs: $2,927
- Fuel: $11,764
2015 Ford Fusion
The estimated true cost to own a 2015 Ford Fusion over a five-year period is $29,352. Some of the most notable costs over the five-year period include:
- Maintenance: $4,937
- Repairs: $2,113
- Fuel: $8,148
2016 Ford Focus
The estimated true cost to own a 2016 Ford Focus over a five-year period is $27,521. Some of the most notable costs over the five-year period include:
- Maintenance: $5,392
- Repairs: $1,675
- Fuel: $7,061
2017 Ford Fiesta
The estimated true cost to own a 2017 Ford Fiesta over a five-year period is $28,890. Some of the most notable costs over the five-year period include:
- Maintenance: $3,856
- Repairs: $615
- Fuel: $7,061
7 Most Popular Models of Used Ford Cars
Below, we will introduce you to seven of the most popular Ford vehicles by model. The information below will include the average price of the vehicle, the overall consumer rating, and some of the reasons why it is ranked as one of the most popular.
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Ford Focus
- Average Price Range: $11,100 to $28,800
- Average Overall Rating: 8.1
The 2016 Ford Focus has won many awards including being one of the best hatchbacks and compact cars in its respective year. Consumers love the Focus because it offers a nice and upscale interior that is modern and sporty. The Focus also boasts an excellent suspension system that allows for supreme control while behind the wheel.
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Ford Fusion
- Average Price Range: $16,000 to $27,000
- Average Overall Rating: 8.1
The 2017 Ford Fusion won multiple awards such as being one of the most affordable midsize cars in its class. Consumers love the Fusion because it offers a roomy and modernized interior with multiple engine options that allow you to be in control of how powerful your ride is.
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Ford Escape
- Average Price Range: $11,100 to $15,200
- Average Overall Rating: 7.8
The 2014 Ford Escape has won many awards for being one of the most affordable SUVs on the market. Consumers who purchase a used Ford Escape enjoy it because it has a large and roomy interior for a smaller-sized SUV. The 2014 edition offers superior handling as well, which makes it a great choice for families.
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Ford Explorer
- Average Price Range: $10,300 to $14,400
- Average Overall Rating: 8.0
Ranking as one of the most affordable 2011 SUVs, the Ford Explorer has been a fan-favorite for years and continues to be a top model. Consumers enjoy the Explorer because it is roomy throughout and can be well handled on and off the blacktop. Equipped with features to keep you on your seat and satisfied, the 2011 Explorer is a wonderful family SUV.
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Ford Expedition
- Average Price Range: $19,400 to $26,500
- Average Overall Rating: 7.3
The 2013 Ford Expedition was ranked on the high end of the most affordable SUVs in its respective year. Consumers love this model because it is roomy, has a third-row seat option that folds down easily, and it handles well both on and off road.
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Ford F-150
- Average Price Range: $18,700 to $39,000
- Average Overall Rating: 8.7
The 2015 Ford F-150 has been named top in the full-size pickup truck category and continues to impress year over year. Consumers love this model year F-150 because it offers extreme hauling and towing capabilities with powerful engine choices that allow you to customize your truck. The F-150 has supreme handling on the road and a suspension system that provides a nice and smooth ride.
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Ford Mustang
- Average Price Range: $17,900 to $45,000
- Average Overall Rating: 8.2
The 2016 Ford Mustang was ranked one of the most affordable sports cars in its year. The muscle under the hood is what drives consumers to purchase used Mustangs year over year. The 2016 model boasts a powerful engine lineup and consumers can choose the one they want. The interior is not only roomy for a sports car but is equipped with amazing features and a breath-taking design.
How to Choose a Good-Quality Used Ford Car for Sale
When it comes time to buy a used car, it is an exciting time, but it is filled with many choices, numbers, and patience. You never want to rush into a sales transaction before you are ready because this could spell trouble for you. While a used Ford car is a great choice, you do need to approach the entire used car buying process with some knowledge.
You do not want to be taken advantage of and because of this, you should look at the four recommendations from our experts about what you should do or think about as you shop for your next used Ford car.
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Determine a Budget and Know the Price of a Used Ford Vehicle
Before you start shopping at all for a used car, you need to think about what you can and cannot afford. It can be easy to head out to the local dealer and see a car you love and then go over budget and put yourself in a bad financial situation because of it.
Setting a budget for yourself BEFORE you shop will eliminate this as you will know exactly how much you can afford. Remember, do not just think about the monthly payment amount or the down payment and think about the price and the cost to own the vehicle over the years too.
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Ask to See the Vehicle History Report
A vehicle history report can provide you with some insight about the used Ford you have on your radar. Buying a used car is less risky than it used to be, but this does not mean you should just purchase one without at least asking for a vehicle history report or maintenance records.
CARFAX is one of the top providers of vehicle history reports and most dealers offer a free report when you inspect a vehicle; however, you can purchase reports online should you want to check a vehicle’s history when you purchase from a private party.
One of the key things to remember with a vehicle history report is that if something was NOT reported using the vehicle’s VIN number, then it will not appear on the report. However, most dealers and reputable auto shops record the data.
Some of the items you can expect to see on a vehicle history report include:
- Accidents or damage to the vehicle, the severity, and where the damage occurred
- Number of owners
- Use of the vehicle or the type of ownership
- Recall information both outstanding and corrected
- Last reported odometer reading
- Maintenance records such as oil changes, repairs, etc.
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Inspect the Car or Have a Qualified Mechanic Inspect It
Purchasing a used car can be scary, especially if you do not know what you are getting yourself into but, with a CARFAX report and an inspection, you can improve your chances of getting a solid and reliable used Ford car.
Whether you or a qualified mechanic will look at the car, here are some tips and steps to make sure you do not end up with a clunker on your hands.
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Inspect the interior and exterior of the car.
The inside and outside of a car can indicate what type of condition it is in. If you open the door and the handle falls off or the interior is ripped, you obviously do not want to purchase the car.
You should make sure you inspect the outside of the car as carefully as possible and look for any signs of rust, dents, or scratches. Of course, scratches and dents can happen at any time so do not lose hope because of a small scratch but pay attention to the larger damage as this may indicate the car as been in an accident.
You want to inspect the interior of the car as well and look for any signs of wear and tear on the seats. You should not see any rips or visible issues with the interior and if you do, it may indicate that the vehicle has not been well maintained.
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Take the used car for a test drive.
The next step in the process is to take the used car on a test drive. You should take it out on both local roads and highways to get a true feel for the car. If the dealer or private party will not let you test drive it or they cut the test drive off quickly, then this may indicate there is an issue with the car.
As you drive on local roads, pay attention to how the car responds to stops, acceleration, turns, and how it handles and shifts. Any issues in these areas may indicate a problem with the transmission or engine.
As you drive on the highway, listen for any odd noises coming from the used car and see how smoothly the engine and transmission run. Keep your eye and ear out for any grinding, jumps in shifts, and squeaks or squeals.
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Perform a leak test and note any problem areas.
A car that has any type of leak is not a car that you want. While some leaks are minor, they indicate that a repair is needed, and you don’t want to start out with the car in the shop.
The best way to test for leaks is to pull over while on the test drive and let the car sit and run for one minute. Then, move the car to a new spot and inspect the ground where the car was parked to check for leaks.
If you notice a green fluid on the ground, this could be antifreeze leaking, a black fluid could be oil, and pink fluid could be a transmission leak. If you notice any leaks, immediately bring them up to the dealer or private party.
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Have a mechanic inspect the car after you do.
While you may know what to look for and how to inspect a used car, you cannot be too cautious. Some people take the car to their own mechanic or have their mechanic meet them at the dealer to look at the car.
If the dealer or private party does not want the mechanic to look at the car, this is a red flag. You should walk away at this point.
Your mechanic will inspect the car thoroughly and may even catch some things that you missed while you were inspecting or test driving it. It is important to have another set of eyes check the car as it can lead to the avoidance of purchasing a problematic car.
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Compare the Age of the Used Car to the Current Mileage
Did you know that BOTH age and mileage matter when it comes to your used car? This can cause a great deal of confusion, especially if you do not know which one matters more or how to make a decision about either.
If you are purchasing a used Ford car, you will find that the number of miles does matter. For example, a car with 60,000 miles looks better than one that has 150,000 miles on it. Once you start to creep closer to that 100,000 mark, you will find that parts need to be replaced and maintenance needs to be had to ensure your car does not fail or wear down too quickly.
With that in mind, unless a car has had a substantial number of miles placed on it in a short time, the mileage does not matter too much.
You do need to consider the age as you look at the miles. If a car is three years old and has 110,000 miles on it, that is a problem. But, if the car is three years old with 45,000 miles on it, that is average.
The average number of miles driven per year throughout the US is about 13,476.
In short, just be wise about the decision you make and always weigh how many miles per the age of the car to determine if the car has had too much stress or strain placed on it.
Battle of the Manufacturers: Ford vs. Chevrolet
Without a doubt and without much disagreement, Ford and Chevrolet are two of the most popular automotive manufacturers in the US. When it comes time to choose a car to meet your needs, you need to know more about the manufacturer, brand, price, reliability, and more. You should never choose a used car simply because you think it is popular or well liked.
Two of the top names in the automotive industry are Ford and Chevy and many consumers have a hard time deciding between the two. We have brought to you a head to head battle of the brands to help you decide which one ranks top.
Who Wins at Reliability: Ford
Ford wins when it comes to reliability and ranking from J.D. Power indicate that Ford is more reliable than Chevy. Ford does boast a half-point lead over Chevy which can be quite significant when you are talking about a 5-point scale. Which would you choose, a car with 3.5 reliability or 4.0 reliability.
One thing to keep in mind is that when it comes to reliability, NO Ford model scored under a three out of five while Chevy had two models that scored below a three.
Who Wins in the Full-Size Pickup Truck Category: Ford
Ford is well-known for their full-size pickup trucks and they continue to beat out Chevy with their F-series model. The F-150 is rated an 8.9 out of 10 while the Chevy Silverado is ranked an 8.8.
Who Wins in the Midsize Car Category: Ford
Both Ford and Chevy offer a large selection of midsize cars to choose from, but Ford stands out in this area. They have some of the top-rated midsize cards with great fuel economy and multiple interior options. While the Chevy Malibu is a close second to the Fusion, Ford definitely takes the cake in this category.
Who Wins at Price: It’s a Tie
When comparing vehicles type by type from both manufacturers, the winner is neither. In fact, both manufacturers tie in this area because their prices are close in comparison with one another and neither has a significant price difference. With that said, Ford is cheaper in the midsize SUV and full-size pickup truck categories.
Who is the Overall Winner? Ford
Ford continues to win when it comes to the battle of the manufacturers. The Ford Motor Company has been ranked number one for its lineup of cars year after year and continues to rank top.
Buy a Used Ford Car for Sale Today
While both Ford and Chevy offer nice options, it is no wonder that consumers continue to turn to a used Ford car as Ford offers reliability, great prices, and safety features that can’t be beat.
If you are in the market for a used Ford car for sale, make sure to check out your local dealer as they likely have some great deals for you to take advantage of. Ford offers cars, trucks, and SUVs that sport all the lovely features you want in a car from automatic transmissions to 4wd, and more. Take advantage of the opportunity to be behind the wheel of a Ford and check out the local used Ford car options near you.
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