The Used Car Buyer's Guide to purchasing a Used Ford in Grand Rapids, MI
A pioneer in the American automotive industry, Ford has been a reliable source for high-quality vehicles since 1903. Having gone through many changes and endured various challenges throughout the years, the company has managed to remain a top contender in car production. From the iconic Model T to the popular F-150, Ford has produced some of America's most beloved vehicles. Known for their durability and performance, Ford vehicles have become a popular choice among used car buyers, providing excellent value for money and proven long-term enjoyment.
If you're in the market for a used Ford, Grand Rapids is a great place to start your search. Home to many used car dealers and private sellers, you're sure to find a wide selection of used Ford cars, trucks, and SUVs to choose from. However, before you start your search, it's important to be prepared. Buying a used car is a big decision, and it's important to do your research to ensure you're getting the best possible deal on your used Ford. To help you get started, we've put together a used car buyer's guide specifically for purchasing a used Ford in Grand Rapids, MI.
Ford history
Ford is an American multinational automaker that was founded by Henry Ford in 1903. Prior to founding the Ford Motor Company, Henry Ford worked as an engineer for the Edison Illuminating Company in Detroit, Michigan. In 1896, he built his first car, which he called the "Quadricycle" - a bicycle-wheeled, gasoline-powered vehicle with an approximately four horsepower engine. After a failed attempt to launch a car company with financial backing from twelve investors, Ford went on to design the 26-horsepower Sweepstakes and drove it to victory in a coveted race where he beat Alexander Winton's Bullet. This win not only put Ford on the map, but it also validated his vision of creating a car that was affordable and accessible to the masses.
Ford founded the Ford Motor Company in 1903 with financial backing from a group of 11 investors, including John and Horace Dodge, who would later go on to found the Dodge Brothers Motor Company. The first car produced by the Ford Motor Company was the Model A, which was followed by the Model T - the car that would make Ford a household name. The Model T was introduced in 1908 and went on to become one of the most popular cars in history. By 1927, Ford had produced over 15 million Model T cars. It is said that, due to demand, Ford was forced to invent innovative mass production techniques, such as the moving assembly line, to keep up with production.
In 1919 Ford, his wife Clara, and son Edsel took full ownership of the company, and in 1922, Ford Motor Company purchased the Lincoln Motor Company, which was struggling at the time. The purchase of Lincoln allowed Ford to enter the luxury car market and expand its product offerings. In the 1930s, Ford weathered the Great Depression better than most other car companies, thanks largely to the popularity of the Model A and Model T. However, by the early 1940s, the company was facing increasing competition from General Motors and Chrysler. In an effort to stay afloat, Ford developed a new car - the Mercury - which was introduced in 1939. The Mercury was a middle-priced car that sat between Ford's lower-priced models and the more luxurious Lincoln.
The 1950s saw the introduction of some of Ford's most iconic vehicles, including the Thunderbird and the F-Series pickup truck. The F-Series pickup truck was first introduced on the cusp of the 50s and has remained in production ever since. It is currently the best-selling truck in America. In 1955, Ford released the Thunderbird - a 2-seater sports car that was designed to compete with General Motors' Corvette.
During the 1960s, the Ford Motor Company ran into some difficulties. In 1962, Henry Ford II - grandson of founder Henry Ford - replaced Robert S. McNamara as company president. McNamara, who would go on to become the Secretary of Defense under Presidents John F. Kennedy and Lyndon B. Johnson, is credited with turning the struggling company around. Under his leadership, Ford introduced a number of new models, including the Ford Mustang in 1964. The Mustang was an instant hit and would go on to become one of the most popular cars in America.
Despite McNamara's best efforts, Ford was losing market share to General Motors and Chrysler. In an attempt to regain ground, Ford introduced a number of new models in the 1970s, including the Ford Pinto and the Ford Granada. However, these models failed to gain popularity with consumers and Ford's market share continued to decline. In 1979, Henry Ford II stepped down as company president, to be replaced by Philip Caldwell. Caldwell, who was the first non-family member to serve as Ford president, is credited with steering the company back to profitability. He did so by streamlining operations, cutting costs, and launching a number of successful new models.
The 1990s were a difficult time for the auto industry as a whole, but Ford managed to weather the storm better than most. In 1994, the company introduced the Ford Taurus - a car that would go on to become one of the best-selling cars in America. In 1998, Ford purchased Swedish automaker Volvo, which helped to bolster the company's European presence. In 1999, Ford also formed a joint venture with Japanese automaker Mazda, which resulted in the creation of the Mazda6 - a car that is still in production today.
However, the early 2000s were marked by a number of challenges for the Ford Motor Company. In 2000, the company announced that it would be phasing out production of the Taurus - a move that garnered significant criticism from consumers. In 2001, Ford also announced that it was closing a number of plants and laying off thousands of workers in an effort to cut costs. The company was further hurt by the global economic recession of 2008, which led to a sharp decline in demand for new cars. In 2009, Ford posted a loss of $14.7 billion - the largest ever for an American automaker.
Ford has managed to overcome these challenges and remain profitable in recent years. In 2010, the company introduced the Ford Fusion - a car that has been well-received by consumers. In 2012, Ford also launched the Ford Focus - a compact car that has been a hit with buyers. The company has also expanded its line-up of SUVs and trucks, which have seen strong demand in recent years.
Looking to the future, Ford is betting big on electric and self-driving cars. In 2016, the company announced that it would invest $4.5 billion in electric vehicle research and development. In 2017, Ford also announced plans to launch a self-driving car-sharing service. They have since partnered with Argo AI to introduce self-driving technology on Lyft vehicles. Today, the company is listed on the New York Stock Exchange and is still controlled by the Ford family; they have minority ownership but majority voting power. Ford continues to be one of the largest automakers in the world.
Ford technology highlights
Of course, the invention of the assembly line by Ford is the technology that put them on the map but since then they've made plenty of other contributions to the automobile industry.
Throughout the ages, Ford's history of innovation has led to a string of impressive firsts from the first mass-produced V8 engine and the development of the Schrader valve, now used in nearly every car tire, to the introduction of the Childproof Door Lock, the launch of the Sync infotainment system, the development of the EcoBoost engine, and the introduction of the aluminum-bodied Ford F150 truck.
In 2007 Ford was the first American automaker to offer a capless fuel filler system which eliminates the need to remove and replace a fuel cap and has since become standard on many Ford models. In 2009 Ford became the first American automaker to offer a 6-speed automatic transmission on a gasoline engine, and in 2013, Ford became the first automaker in the world to offer start-stop technology on a gasoline-powered car with the launch of the Ford Fusion.
Ford also speaks openly about using the latest technology in their design and manufacturing processes including 'collaborative robots', 3D printing, Exoskeletons, and AR.
Why buy a used Ford?
Fords are known for their durability, reliability, and value. Buying a used Ford means you can get all of these things at a fraction of the price of a new car. Fords also have a reputation for being easy to work on, so if you're the type of person who likes to tinker with your car, a used Ford may be a good choice for you.
There are plenty of used Ford models to choose from, so you're sure to find one that fits your needs and budget. Whether you're looking for a fuel-efficient used Ford sedan, a spacious used Ford SUV, or a tough used Ford truck, there's a wide selection of used Ford vehicles on the market. When you buy a used Ford, you can be confident that you're getting a high quality vehicle. Ford is known for building long-lasting cars, and many used Ford models have gone on to rack up hundreds of thousands of miles.
Purchasing a used Ford car also allows you to benefit from cutting-edge features without paying a premium price. Many of Ford's latest and greatest features are available on used models, so you can get all the bells and whistles without breaking the bank. A newer Ford model will allow you to enjoy touchscreen displays and the latest driver assists technologies. FordPass Mobility App is another great feature that allows you to control your car remotely, check vehicle diagnostics, and even pre-heat, pre-cool, and find your car where you left it. Ford Co-Pilot360 is a suite of driver assists that come standard on many new models including Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking, Lane-Keeping System, and Auto High-Beam Headlamps. Towing features are also available on many used Ford models such as camera -based trailer hitch assist and trailer sway control. Entertainment features like Ford+Alexa and SYNC 3 or SYNC 4, which includes voice-activated controls and a responsive touchscreen display, are also available on many used Ford cars.
Purchasing a used Ford in Grand Rapids, MI
If you're in the market for a used Ford, Grand Rapids is an excellent place to start your search. With numerous used car dealers and a large selection of models to choose from, you're sure to find the perfect used Ford for you.
When purchasing a used Ford, it's important to do your research and know what to look for. Start by narrowing down your search to the type of Ford you're interested in and the budget you have in mind. Once you've done that, it's time to start looking at individual cars. Make sure to inspect the used car or used truck thoroughly before making a purchase, and if possible, take it for a test drive. Pay attention to how the car feels and drives, and if you notice any strange noises or vibrations, have the used car checked by a professional before making a purchase.
Having the full history of a used car is also important when making a purchase. This includes service records, previous owners, and any accidents or damage that might have occurred. A used car with a full history is more likely to be in good condition and will have been well-maintained.
Used car buyers tend to be worried about getting a raw deal, but there are a few things you can do to protect yourself. First, make sure you're working with a reputable used car dealer or seller. Do your research and read reviews before settling on a specific dealer. Once you've found a used car dealer you're comfortable with, get the car's history in writing. This way, you have a record of what the car has been through and can identify any potential problems with greater ease.
Most popular Ford cars
When it comes to finding a used Ford, there are plenty of great options to choose from. Ford cars are reliable and long-lasting, so you can feel confident that you're getting a quality vehicle when you purchase a used Ford. Some of their most popular used cars include the Ford Mustang, Ford Fiesta, Ford Escort, and Ford Taurus. These models are all known for being easy to drive, fuel efficient, and extremely reliable.
Ford Mustang
The Ford Mustang is one of the most popular used cars on the market. It's a great choice for those looking for a reliable and stylish car. The Ford Mustang is known for its powerful engine, great handling, and unique style. The original Ford Mustang dates back to 1964, and since then, it has undergone numerous redesigns. A 2020 used Ford Mustang is a great choice for anyone looking for an affordable, modern sports car with plenty of horsepower. With a 6-speed manual transmission and I-4 engine, the 2020 used Ford Mustang is sure to get you where you need to go in style.
Ford Fiesta
The Ford Fiesta is another excellent choice for those in the market for a used Ford car. It's a small car that's easy to drive and park, and it gets excellent gas mileage. The used Ford Fiesta is best known for reliability and affordability, providing ample safety features and a comfortable ride. With a 1.6 L, I-4 engine and 5-speed manual transmission, a 2019 used Ford Fiesta is not only fuel-efficient, but also reliable and extremely economical.
Ford Escort
The Ford Escort is recognized as one of the most reliable used cars on the market. It's known for being easy to drive and very affordable. The Ford Escort is a great choice for anyone looking for a dependable and practical car. A 2020 used Ford Escort offers a 1.6 L, I-4 engine and 5-speed manual transmission. It has slightly more space on the interior than its predecessors, and ample trunk space. It is also low on fuel consumption, and an 8-way power adjustable driver’s seat will ensure that you always have a comfortable ride.
Ford Taurus
Known for being a flagship model, the Ford Taurus is a spacious, comfortable, and refined full-size sedan. It's a great choice for families or those who need a bit more space inside.,It has plenty of features and amenities. A 2020 used Ford Taurus offers a 2L EcoBoost I-4 engine with 240 horsepower and 8-speed automatic transmission. Fitted with SYNC 3 technology, you can look forward to voice control, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and navigation.
Most popular Ford trucks and SUVS
Ford has been named the undisputed king of trucks, and for good reason. Ford's trucking history goes back to 1917 when they released their first truck, the Model TT. Today, Ford trucks and SUVs are some of the most popular vehicles on the market, with models like the full Ford F-series, Ford Explorer, Ford Transit, Ford Ranger, and Ford Maverick topping the used truck and used SUV charts as best-sellers. All of these trucks and SUVs offer great towing capacity, plenty of space and storage, and the latest in safety features and technology.
Ford F-series
The Ford F-series are the best-selling vehicles in America. These trucks are known for being tough, reliable, and capable of handling just about anything you throw at them. The Ford F 150 has been the best-selling truck in America for over 4 decades. Its latest iteration, the 2021 all-electric F-150 Lightning, may well have changed the game once again as the first all-electric truck on the market. The Ford F250 offers best-in-class towing capacity, while the Ford F350 boasts an impressive gas or diesel engine. A used Ford F150 with a 3.0 L Diesel engine will give you 440 lb-ft of torque and a 10-speed automatic transmission. A used Ford F150 with a twin-turbo V-6 engine allows you to tow up to 13,200 pounds making it a great choice for those who need a used Ford truck that can handle the heavy lifting.
Ford Explorer
With a 10-speed shiftable automatic transmission, the used Ford Explorer is a powerful SUV with a 3.3L engine, 318 horsepower and 322 lb-ft of torque. The ability to tow up to 5,000 lbs allows you to take your Explorer just about anywhere and it's a great choice for those who need an SUV that can handle off-road adventures. The Ford Explorer comes standard with features like multi-level heating on driver and passenger seats, and an 8-way power driver seat for maximum comfort has been praised for its sleek and modern interior.
Ford Transit
The Ford Transit is a versatile Ford cargo van that can be used for a variety of purposes, from hauling cargo to shuttling passengers. With ample space on the interior and a maximum towing capacity of 7,500 pounds, a used Ford Transit is a great choice for those who need a van that can do it all. A used Ford Transit comes standard with a 3.5L V6 engine providing 275 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque. It has plenty of storage and cargo space, making it a great choice for anyone who needs a van for work or play.
Ford Ranger
The Ford Ranger is a compact pickup truck built for performance. With a 10-speed shiftable automatic transmission, and I-4 engine providing 270 horsepower with 310 lb-ft of torque, a 2020 used Ford Ranger can go 0-60 in about 6.5 seconds. A max towing capacity of 7,500 pounds allows you to tow just about anything you need, with 4-wheel drive giving you the ability to take on any terrain, with a rugged bumper that's built for off-road adventures. The Ranger comes standard with Ford's SYNC 3 infotainment system, which includes features like hands-free calling, car Wi-Fi, and Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility.
Ford Maverick
The Ford Maverick is a compact SUV that's perfect for those who want the versatility of an SUV with the smaller size and fuel efficiency of a sedan. With a 2.0L EcoBoost engine and 8-speed automatic transmission, a 2020 used Ford Maverick is capable of towing up to 2000 pounds and gets an impressive 33 mpg on the highway. The Maverick comes standard with an 8-inch center touch screen and SYNC 3 technology for maximum connectivity while you ride.
