Patrick Carr Answers Your Used Car Questions!
Buying a car naturally comes with a lot of questions, and buying a used car comes with even more. That's why Patrick Carr, Dealer Principle at Evansville Ford, has stepped in to provide answers to some of the most common used car-buying questions drivers from Evansville, Janesville and Madison have.
Pat's been with Evansville Ford for over 10 years, and he's seen it all. Check out his insights into the used car market and learn what to expect when you visit our Wisconsin Ford dealer!
Used Car-Buying FAQs
01
Why should I buy a used car vs. new?
A used car is excellent value. Many times, it can save you thousands compared to a new car. The depreciation of the vehicle has already occurred so your car won't lose immediate value like new vehicles often do. Plus, it has better value upfront by having a lower price than a new car. The mechanical soundness is assured by virtue of the state-regulated inspection. Evansville Ford uses Ford certified technicians to complete the 60-point inspection.
02
What does CPO mean?
CPO means Certified Pre-Owned, which refers to like-new vehicles that meet certain age, mileage and condition requirements. The Ford CPO program is known as Ford Blue Advantage and has three levels:
- Gold Certified: Ford only, less than 6 years old, fewer than 80,000 miles, 172-point inspection
- EV Certified: Ford EVs only, less than 6 years old, fewer than 80,000 miles, 127-point inspection
- Blue Certified: Any make or model, less than 10 years old, fewer than 150,000 miles, 139-point inspection
03
How can I check vehicle history on a used car?
We offer free CARFAX® Vehicle History Reports via our website. You can also contact or visit Evansville Ford to get your report.
04
What should I look out for when buying a used car?
Check out the CARFAX® Vehicle History Report to view the repair history of the vehicle. Check for excessive ware on the tires and the painted surfaces. Ask for the Used Car inspection report and the repair order that details the work done to make the vehicle ready for sale.
05
What are typical used car loan rates?
Rates vary based on the age of the vehicle, the credit situation of the purchaser applying for the loan, the length of time of the loan's term, and the percentage of value of the vehicle that's associated with the loan contract.
The best rates are given to people who are buying newer used vehicles, with a loan term that is shorter, or with a larger down payment. The down payment creates equity for the loan purposes. Evansville Ford also works with over 30 different lenders to offer competitive rates.
06
Is it worth it to buy a 7-year-old car?
Yes, there are many 7-year-old vehicles that are in excellent condition and have many years of serviceability. Vehicles today have much more longevity than they had in past years.
07
Are used Ford models good cars?
They are excellent. Ford engines and transmission have been proven workhorse for many years. Because of this reputation, Ford has been the No. 1-selling American make for years. The F-150 has been the No. 1-selling vehicle for over 40 years.
08
Are there any used car specials?
Evansville Ford offers free oil changes for life when you purchase a car! And we price our used vehicles aggressively in the Madison and Janesville areas.
09
How many miles is good for a used car?
Condition and service history are much more important to determine the longevity of a vehicle than miles. Miles will give you an idea of usage but not how a car was cared for. Vehicle maintenance is a much more accurate indicator of how long the vehicle will last.
10
Which is the best used car brand to buy?
Ford. It's the No. 1-selling American make for a reason. Quality cars with good longevity and lots of options.
11
Should I buy a used car from a dealership or private seller?
Because of the state-mandated inspection process, you should choose a dealership. A vehicle purchased from a dealership is mandated that the inspection and disclosure must be completed. A vehicle that is purchased from a private party is not subject to the law mandating inspection and disclosure of any issue found.
A vehicle purchased from a dealership is also eligible for additional service contracts because of the inspection process. The person purchasing a vehicle from a dealership has many more assurances of a problem-free vehicle than a person who purchases from a private party.
12
Does Evansville Ford offer any used car special programs?
YES. Visit Evansville Ford to ask us about them! We can help you save with used car specials.
Buy a Used Car in Evansville, WI
Have more questions? Contact Evansville Ford or drop by our lot to speak with Pat or one of the many other tenured members of our team. When it comes to used car knowledge, we have some of the best expertise in the state of Wisconsin.
Come take advantage of our years of experience to make your used car-buying experience easy and informative. We can't wait to see you!
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