The LaFayette Ford Blog

For Women Only - Tips for Buying a Car

By

Angela Godwin, LaFayette Ford Lincoln, Fayetteville, NC

At LaFayette Ford Lincoln, we believe that buying a new car should be a pleasant experience. We understand that women usually make the final decisions for the family car or their personal car. Women buy more than 65% of all new vehicles. Even if they’re not the ones signing the check, they have a decisive influence in 93% of all vehicle purchases, according to Road and Travel. So at LaFayette Ford Lincoln we would like to offer just a few tips to make buying a new car a wonderful experience.

• DO have realistic expectations of what you can spend, and what the car you
  are interested in is worth. Use the internet to your advantage and research, research, research.


• DO find the right salesperson. If you’re not getting the treatment that you
  expect, or you don’t think you’re getting the appropriate information,
  find a manager and don’t settle for anything less.


• DO come prepared – bring quotes, loan approvals, rebate guarantees and your
  knowledge of terminology to the salesroom floor. Again, having information
  is the key to careful negotiations.


• DO stay positive and confident.


• DO research loan options before going to the dealer, to help alleviate fears.


• DO read the fine print and beware of hidden dealer fees. Go over the purchase
  order with a fine-toothed comb. Make sure the tax, tag and title are
  included in the mix.


• DO understand about warranty packages, insurance options and other add-ons
  before making any commitments.

• DON’T take it personally . Understand that salespeople are there to make money. You’re there to spend money. Keep that smile on your face, and use it to your benefit.


• DON’T put down a deposit on your new car until the offer is approved in writing.


• DON’T feel that you have to take the car home that very day – go home and review everything you went over during your visit.


• DON’T forget that if the dealer does not have the exact car you want, you may
  have the dealer order it directly from the factory. This does not cost
  more, but may take anywhere from weeks to months to arrive.


• DON’T consider trading in your car unless the dealer guarantees (in writing)
  they will pay off the payment as requested by the bank.


• DON’T give your driver’s license up when you’re on the test drive. Instead, make
  a copy and provide it to the dealer. There’s also no reason for them to
  have your Social Security Number at this point. In some cases, dealers
  have been known to run unauthorized credit checks while you’re out and
  about. Stay protected.

The Power of the Purse

At the turn of the 20th Century old-time Ford advertisements told a quaint story of a woman as a fragile creature, somewhat prone to panic, in need of a simple automobile that even she could operate.  Times have definitely changed.  Ford vehicles are still durable and easy to handle, but the women behind the wheel bear little resemblance to meek flower of yesteryear.  Today's woman is strong, self-assured, and very capable of taking care of herself. 

"Women pack a powerful punch" said Christine Stasiw Lazarchuk, director of global marketing and research for Ford.  Statistics prove her point. "Women are directly responsible for 45 to 50 percent of all new vehicles purchased in the United States, and they have a direct influence of up to 80 percent of vehicles they don't purchase themselves."  And 65 percent of women take their own vehicles to the dealership or shop to repair.  Women account for a whopping $85 million in automotive and related
businesses."

Sheryl Connelly, Ford's global trend manager sees five major global factors driving the change in the shift of women's roles in car buying. 

• Improved education:   The gender gap in education continues to narrow, allowing women to find their way into the work force.  In the United States, the number of women earning a Ph.D. is rising at a rate of 63 percent.
• Career Opportunities:  With more education, women are finding their way into the work force, earning their own money. 
• Financial Independence:  Increased earning power is leading to financial independence for more women. Working women often out earn their partners by 25 percent in the United
  States.
• Delayed marriage and parenthood: More and more women are choosing to delay marriage to pursue education, career and personal development, with many choosing to have fewer children later in life. 
• Media: The spread of information in the media, particularly the internet has empowered women.  About half of women worldwide own their own computers.

As the world changes, women obviously change with it.  When the economy began to crumble, many women took a leading role in keeping the home front together- either going back to work or taking over the belt tightening of the budget. Gender roles have blurred. The definitive roles as the man as the breadwinner and the woman staying at home are no longer clear.

With the roles of today's women changing Ford's marketing team is charged with reaching target demographics that include, of course the specific needs and wants of women.  It is important to note that Ford does not design cars for the sexes.  Ford designs well-made, well-designed cars with features that appeal to both men and women.  Ford recognizes that men and women often express their desires for a car differently.  Women may express that they do not want to be stranded by a car that is broken down, whereas a man may state that he does not want to have to deal with car troubles or maintenance.  Females also tend to notice details like warmer interior colors, or hand stitching, and they are willing to pay extra for them. 

"There is a great growth potential for companies that understand what women want" Connelly stated.  "At Ford, we know that women represent a huge market opportunity, and we work to design, develop and market our products and services in a way that captures the attention of the incredibly influential buying group."

 

 

What is the “Green” Initiative for the Car Industry?
Hybrid Automobiles

By Rusty Hinton, LaFayette Ford Lincoln

I am asked all the time exactly what is the “green” initiative for the car industry? What does going green mean? What exactly is a “hybrid” vehicle? So, I wanted to take the time to answer a few of those questions.
First of all, let’s talk about the components of a hybrid vehicle. Hybrid cars get their power from two different sources, often gas and battery. Hybrid vehicles do not plug in to anything, and average about 30-50 mpg. Usually, they have smaller engines that will let you get anywhere you need to go, but might possibly require an extra boost sometimes when going up a hill, so the battery will kick on. During braking and idling, the engine shuts completely off to save on gasoline and energy. When you apply the brakes, the energy exerted is transformed into heat and propels the car by way of the battery. The car is fully capable of running solely on the battery, but you should never let your hybrid run out of gas. It should not run on the battery alone for long periods of time, as it may cause damage to the car. However, a very positive aspect is the long life that comes along with the batteries of hybrid cars. These parts are well-engineered and designed to last a lifetime. On average, you will get a warranty that will cover the battery for 8-10 years, and you may never have to replace your battery – it completely recharges itself every time you drive the car.
Some other perks:
• Perfect for the stop-n-go life of the city dweller.
• Can acquire some tax breaks after purchase.
• Excellent warranties, most any dealer can repair and it shouldn’t cost more than the traditional gasoline-powered car.
• Body styles are smaller, lighter and more aerodynamic – they’re cute!
Early on in this article, I mentioned federal tax credits for buyers of Hybrid cars. The federal government provides an income tax credit for buyers of hybrid vehicles up to approximately $3,200, depending on the model of the vehicle. Credits are phased out, however, after the auto manufacturer sells 60,000 hybrids.
There are three types of “green” automobiles. The three types of “green” vehicles are the hybrid, the electric and the hydrogen automobile. Next up, we will research the electric automobile. Green automobiles are all the rage, and why shouldn’t they be? They’re environmentally friendly by lowering emissions and greenhouse gases in the atmosphere. These vehicles also save gasoline and save you on maintenance costs due to less wear and tear on major automotive parts.

What In The World Does That Mean? How Often Should I Change My Oil?

By James Melvin, LaFayette Ford Lincoln Service Manager

I believe it is not only important to understand how to negotiate to buy a new or used vehicle but also how to maintain your vehicle. There are a lot of terms that are related to the maintenance of your vehicle that are important to understand. Many of us rely on our vehicle to let us know when it is time for an oil change, or a tire rotation. Let me share with you a few basics of vehicle terminology and time schedules for your vehicle maintenance.
Vehicle Terminology:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Braking systems which sense wheel rotation and automatically “pump” the brakes for the driver in emergency braking conditions. The pumping and the prevention of wheel lockup allow the driver to retain steering capabilities during the braking emergency. If you have purchased a vehicle with this system it is advised that the dealer show you the proper use of this braking system. Most ABS systems work when the driver applies heavy, constant braking pressure, and do not work properly if the driver “pumps” the brakes.
Brake Caliper
A hydraulic (liquid-pressured) piston assembly that holds disc-brake pads.
Brake Pad
Used in a disc system, it is a replaceable piece of backing plate and additional friction lining. The disc, a thick, round metal plate located behind each wheel, against which a set of brake pads are applied by a caliper during braking.
Brake Rotor
Shiny metal disk that brake pads squeeze to stop the vehicle; hence the name disc brakes.
Disc Brakes
Shiny metal discs, called brake rotors, are attached to the wheel hub, rotating with the wheel. When the brake pedal is depressed, the brake calipers squeeze the discs to slow the vehicle.
Suspension
Independent Suspension
A suspension design that lets each wheel move up and down independently of the others. A vehicle can have two-wheel or four-wheel independent suspension
Shock Absorber
A device that converts motion into heat, usually by forcing oil through small internal passages in a tubular housing.
Strut
A single, self-contained pivoting suspension unit that integrates a coil spring with a shock absorber. Struts are used on front-wheel drive automobiles.
Transmission/Drivetrain
Drivetrain
Vehicle components which act together to move the vehicle forward or backward. On a rear-drive vehicle, it is the combination of the engine, transmission, differential and drive shaft. On a front-drive vehicle, it consists of the engine, transaxle and drive axles.
Driveshaft
A long metal cylinder located between the transmission and the rear axle, in front-engine rear-wheel drive vehicles. The shaft is connected to the components on each end with a universal joint, which allows for movement up and down without bending the shaft.
Clutch
This drivetrain component is found between the engine and the transmission. It acts as a coupling device which is used to engage and disengage the transmission from the engine when shifting gears.
Clutch Disk
Presses against the transmission flywheel to transfer power from the engine to the transmission.
Flywheel
A large disc bolted to the rear end of the crankshaft. The flywheel is encircled by a ring gear whose teeth are designed to mesh with the pinion gear in the starter during the process of starting the engine.
Limited-Slip Differential
A device that helps prevent the drive wheels from skidding or losing traction by diverting power from the slipping wheel to the opposite wheel on the same axle.
Exhaust/Emissions
Catalytic Converter
A component of the exhaust system that creates a heat-producing chemical reaction to convert potentially harmful combustion byproducts into carbon dioxide and water.
Muffler
A chamber in the engine exhaust system used to suppress exhaust noise and smooth exhaust pulsations. Also referred to as a “silencer.”
Engine
Fan Belt
Transmits power from a crankshaft-driven pulley to an engine fan and other accessories.
Fuel Injector
Taking the place of carburetors in the 1980s, the fuel injector is an electrically controlled valve that delivers a precise amount of pressurized fuel into each combustion chamber.
Horsepower (hp, bhp)
Abbreviated as hp, as in 200-hp engine, or bhp (brake horsepower or net horsepower) to designate power produced by an engine. In general, the higher the horsepower, the higher the vehicle’s top speed. One horsepower is the power needed to lift a 550-pound weight one foot in one second.
Octane
The hydrocarbon substance in gasoline that reduces engine knock or pinging, which is a noise caused by premature ignition of fuel in the cylinder combustion chamber. High octane, which has a rating above 91, is useful only when recommended by the manufacturer.
Spark Plug
Converts voltage into an arc that passes between its electrodes; the arc ignites the fuel-air mixture in the combustion chamber. The mixture explodes, creating power by pushing down the piston.
Starter
An electric motor used to initiate movement of internal engine parts so that combustion can begin. Activating the starter causes the solenoid to thrust the pinion gear in the starter against the engine flywheel ring gear and begin turning it.
Torque
A measure of twisting force, given in foot-pounds (abbreviated as lb.-ft.) or Newton-meters (N-m). In the case of an automobile, it is the twisting or rotational force the engine exerts on the crankshaft. Vehicle specifications often include the maximum torque an engine produces at a specific number of revolutions.
Turbocharger
Device that compresses and forces extra air into the intake manifold to produce extra power. Both turbochargers and superchargers are used to produce more power without increasing engine displacement, but neither are particularly fuel efficient and both can require costly maintenance as vehicles age. By forcing fuel through the engine, this system allows the car to gather more speed.
Supercharger
Serves the same function as a turbocharger but avoids lag time because it runs off an engine-driven pump. Both turbochargers and superchargers are used to produce more power without increasing engine displacement, but neither are particularly fuel efficient and both can require costly maintenance as vehicles age.
V-Type Engine
In a V-6, V-8 or V-12 engine, the cylinders are divided into two banks, each of which is angled away from the other at the top, forming a ‘V’. Typically, this angle is 60 degrees on V-6 engines and 90 degrees on V-8 engines. From the rear, they are identified by having twin exhaust pipes, and by ear have a deep rumble engine sound.
Safety
Side Airbag
An inflatable cushion that fills the space between the door and the occupant to prevent head, torso and pelvis injuries when a vehicle is hit from the side. Side airbags may be stored in the door-trim panel or the outboard side of the seat; they may protect the hip and torso only or also protect the head. A new design, called an inflatable tubular restraint, is stored in the edge of the roof headliner and attached at the base of the A-pillar at the front end and above the doors along the roofline at the other. The device inflates into a somewhat stiff tube that prevents the occupant’s head from hitting the side pillar or the window.
Side-Impact
Safety regulations require that vehicles absorb a certain amount of force when hit from the side. To meet side-impact standards, automakers have stiffened side-impact beams, which resist intrusion into the passenger compartment, and added safety devices such as side airbags and extra padding, which are designed to push the occupant toward the interior of the vehicle and away from the point of intrusion.
General
Hybrid
Vehicle that uses a combination of gasoline and electricity for motive power, so as increase efficiency and thereby reduce emissions.
Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)
A 17 digit identification number, unique to each vehicle, which includes codes for the manufacturer, year, model, body and engine specifications.

Recommended Maintenance Schedules:
Oil Change
Typically every 3 months or 3,000 miles. Some car companies are using synthetic oil, which has a longer lifespan than conventional oil. With synthetic oil, expect a lifespan of anywhere from 10,000 to 15,000 miles. In this situation, it is normal to have to add oil to your vehicle after about 7,000 miles. Check with your local dealership to see if they cover oil changes as part of a maintenance program.
Tire Rotation
It’s important to rotate your tires every 5,000 miles. When you buy tires from a specialized tire store – be it a large chain or small shop – they will typically rotate the tires for you for free as long as you have the tires. Dealerships will also often perform this task for you if you are getting other work done.
Wiper Blades
These are often the most overlooked part on a vehicle. It is recommended that you change your wiper blades every 6 months, or every major season change. Again, many car manufacturers are starting to include the replacement of wiper blades with maintenance programs, so see your dealer to see if this is covered. Keeping your wiper blades clean will also help improve their performance. Simply take a wet towel or paper towel and wipe off the rubber blade. When dirt and other debris collect on the blade, it can hinder the performance of the blade. In the wintertime, keep a spare gallon of window washer fluid in your trunk. In inclement weather, you’d be surprised how fast you can use it up and having a spare bottle could come in handy.
Tire Pressure
The tire pressure recommendations for your car can be found in the owner’s manual, but can also be found on the inside of the door jamb on the driver’s side. In 2009, the U.S. government is mandating that all new vehicles have a Tire Pressure Monitoring System. This system quickly tells the driver if the tire pressure is low on their vehicle.

New car vs. Used car – which is best?

By Rusty Hinton, General Sales Manager at LaFayette Ford

When you need transportation, one of the first decisions you may have to make is whether to buy a new vehicle or a used one. Both options have pros and cons, and those are the factors to consider when choosing between buying a new or a used car or truck.

THE PROS OF BUYING A NEW VEHICLE

1. No previous owner means no previous maintenance neglect and no prior accident damage. You are buying a vehicle that has had no prior harm done to it. It is brand new and clear of mechanical or cosmetic imperfections.
2. 0% financing. From time to time, car manufacturers offer customers with approved credit 0% APR, and we’ve seen it up to 72 months. This means that you are paying zero interest on your auto loan. That is not offered on used vehicle loans.
3. The latest technology. Every year Ford comes out with the latest in technological advances on their vehicles. Buying the newest model means you are getting the latest technology, like SYNC and MyFord Touch.
4. Manufacturer’s warranty – your new vehicle comes with a comprehensive manufacturer’s warranty. Buying a new car means you will get the complete benefits of that coverage.
5. All the excitement that comes with having a brand new car…the new car smell, the tightness in the steering and handling, the pristine upholstery, it all comes with buying a new car or truck.

THE CONS OF BUYING A NEW VEHICLE

1. The depreciation of value that comes with buying a new vehicle. The new car excitement comes with a cost that depreciates once you become the first owner of the vehicle. People are not willing to pay the new car price for a used car.
2. Your insurance cost may be higher. We recommend buying GAP insurance when purchasing a new car to help cover the depreciation in case your car is totaled. Sometimes this insurance cost can be offset, at least in part, with discounts for the latest safety features.

THE PROS OF BUYING A USED VEHICLE

1. You will pay a lower price for a used car than you will for a new one. The older the vehicle is, in general, the lower the price.
2. You may be able to afford a more luxurious used car than you would a new version due to the difference in price.
3. It does not depreciate as quickly as a new car.
4. Your insurance may be less, depending on make and model.

THE CONS OF BUYING A USED VEHICLE

1. You are buying a vehicle that may have not been serviced as well as it should have been. At LaFayette Ford, we run our used vehicles through rigorous inspections to make sure they are in sound condition. Not all dealers will do that.
2. You may not get the latest in technology or safety on a used vehicle.
3. No comprehensive warranty, unless you are buying a Ford Certified Pre-Owned vehicle from us. We do offer 6 year/100,000 mile extended warranties at no extra charge on our Ford Certified Pre-Owned vehicles.
4. You may incur higher maintenance costs as your mileage climbs.

It is a good idea to visit a dealership that sells both new and used and test drive both versions of the model you are interested in owning. Ask the dealer to present you with buying options and payment plans for both new and used. Then you can weigh the cost differences along with the pros and cons, and make the best decision for you and your budget.

The LaFayette Ford Story

“We always want to be known as the family Ford store that treats you like family,” says Don Price, President and one of the owners of LaFayette Ford. The dealership is the only family-owned and operated Ford store in Fayetteville, and has been for over 60 years. Don Price, along with son, Tim Price, and son-in-law, Mark Fisher, own and operate the business.

It all started in 1949, when LaFayette Motor Sales opened its doors and began selling Ford cars and trucks in Fayetteville. The All-American dealership was built on fundamental values, like honesty, integrity, respect and community involvement.

“If you look after the community, then the community will look after you. That’s the idea I’ve tried to instill here over the years,” says Price. He began his automotive career at LaFayette Ford in 1965 after he completed his service in the U.S. Air Force. He started as a salesman and, by 1980, had worked his way up to general sales manager. In 1989, he bought into LaFayette Ford and became a dealer principal, and in 1996 he completed the purchase. Though his leadership brought growth and change to the company, Price upheld the community-minded business philosophy that his predecessors began. “It’s not all about selling cars,” Price continues. “You have to be visible and involved and recognize the needs of the community.”

For Price and his team of one hundred employees, it starts with supporting the military and the local school system. Through Ford’s Drive One 4UR School and Drive One 4 the Troops special fund-raising events, LaFayette Ford raised over $10,000 for area high schools, and another $10,000 for the National Military Family Association.

In addition, LaFayette ford is involved with AUSA, BSAC, PSAC, MAC and Friends of SOF. They also proudly sponsor events at Fort Bragg, like the annual Holiday Tree Lighting Celebration and the Fort Bragg Fair.

Each year, LaFayette Ford awards scholarships to outstanding local FFA students and gives the Principal of the Year a one year lease on a new Ford.

The family’s commitment to the community does not go unnoticed. In 2010, Governor Bev Purdue awarded Don Price the Order of the Long Leaf Pine award. Ford Motor Company honored him that same year with the Salute to Dealers Award. In 2009, Price was the North Carolina Automobile Dealers nominee for the 2009 Time Magazine Dealer of the Year award. All of these awards are given to recognize outstanding dedication to community service.

All three owners are actively involved in their local Kiwanis club and serve their community through various avenues through that civic organization. They also proudly support the arts, local childrens charities, the Fayetteville YMCA and many, many other deserving local charities.

Last year LaFayette Ford’s commitment to excellence in customer service earned the dealership one of the highest honors possible, the President’s Award from Ford Motor Company. Alan Mulally, the President and CEO of Ford, personally visited LaFayette Ford to give the award to the owners and staff. That will be a day long remembered by everyone at the dealership. The award is given based on customer surveys about the level of professionlism and customer service given by the dealership. “We’ve always used the old golden rule philosophy. You simply treat customers the way you want to be treated,” commented Price. “It’s just really wonderful to be recognized for it.”

LaFayette Ford has achieved over 60 years of success by being the family-owned Ford store that treats you like family. Mark Fisher and Tim Price continue building on that solid foundation of family values, taking LaFayette Ford into a bright future.

LEASING VS. PURCHASING – WHICH IS BETTER FOR YOU?

By Rusty Hinton for LaFayette Ford

LaFayette Ford has some really great leasing offers right now, and many of our customers are upgrading to nicer vehicles at very low monthly payments. Leasing is a great option for some people. Here are some important questions to ask yourself in helping you decide whether to lease or buy your next vehicle.

1. Probably the most important factor to consider is your monthly budget. If you don’t have much to put toward a car payment every month, leasing is a great way to get a lower payment.
2. Do you like to drive a new car every couple of years? If so, you definitely should consider leasing. You can simply turn in your vehicle and get a new lease every two years or so, depending on the length of time you have your lease.
3. How many miles will you put on your vehicle per year? If you plan to have high mileage, make sure you take that into consideration when you lease your vehicle. There are often limits to how many miles you can put on a car that is being leased. If you go over your mileage, you will have to pay a bit more when you turn in the vehicle at the end of the lease.

 

There are other advantages to leasing as well. These include:

 

1. Leasing saves on maintenance costs most of the time, because you trade vehicles every 2-3 years or so. Most vehicles will not need major repairs in the first few years of ownership.
2. You will be driving a vehicle that in most cases is under factory warranty.
3. Leasing will usually mean lower taxes and finance charges.
4. You do not have to worry about trying to sell your vehicle when you are ready to trade.
5. GAP coverage – this covers you in case your car is stolen or in an accident and is worth less than the amount you owe on the lease.
6. When you lease you are not paying for the entire cost of the vehicle, just the cost of the depreciation of the vehicle as you drive it.
7. You have options when your lease is up. You can choose to turn in the vehicle or to buy it.

LaFayette Ford has some really great lease packages available on almost every 2011 model! Call us at 910-424-0281, and we can give you more information.

FORD FIESTA – TECHNO-WONDER!

By Paula Lindler, LaFayette Ford

Have you seen the latest, coolest, most cutting edge, fuel-efficient car from Ford? It’s the Fiesta, and it’s got so much personality it even talks to you!

More fuel-efficient than the Toyota Yaris and the Honda Fit, it gets a whopping 40+ mpg and is available with a six-speed automatic transmission that thinks like a manual.

It’s the safest car in its class, too, with seven standard airbags. It starts with the push of a button, comes with SYNC voice-activated technology and SIRIUS satellite radio.

But one of the coolest things about this little car is the design features. It has dragon’s eye headlamps, a sleek aerodynamic body with a rear end that slants upward, and hip interior lighting that gives this little car a lot of sophistication. The exterior color palette is edgy too; available in lime green, bright yellow, flaming blue, candy apple red and more.

This is an awesome vehicle for young singles, early marrieds, college students, commuters, anyone who wants a fuel-efficient vehicle loaded with the latest technology and safety. If you’re considering a Yaris, a Fit, or similar vehicle, you will kick yourself if you buy one before you test drive a Fiesta. It gets better gas mileage, has better safety features, comes with the latest technology, and you won’t be sorry you waited.

The Revolutionary 2010 Ford Transit Connect

By Rusty Hinton, General Sales Manager

 

The all-new 2010 Ford Transit Connect is a revolutionary new sales and service business vehicle and LaFayette Ford is the only dealer in Fayetteville that has them in stock!

The Transit Connect is the wave of the future for delivery vehicles. Gone are the days of huge cargo vans with poor gas mileage, difficult maneuverability and poor visibility.

The Transit Connect has a smaller wheel base for turn-on-a-dime driving ease. It gets up to 25 miles per gallon on the highway and that’s better than any other vehicle in its class.

Not only is it a joy to drive, it’s great looking, too! It has an aerodynamic, cutting edge design and the outside is completely customizable. You can wrap it with your logo and business decals and it transforms into a roving billboard for your business!

The interior is huge with 135 cubic feet of cargo space and 1600 pound payload capacity. And the inside is all completely customizable, too. We can hook you up with racks, shelving, anything you need to make your Transit Connect work for you. And you can take up to five passengers along for the ride.

This is also the most technologically advanced service vehicle on the market today. Its available with the very latest options, like hands-free calling, on-board inventory tracking and ordering, a navigation system, in-dash computer and much more.

Don’t miss your chance to check out this one of a kind vehicle! Stop by LaFayette Ford today! We’re located in Fayetteville at 5202 Raeford Road, or you can call us at 910-424-0281 or 1-800-810-7493.

What you should know about Cash for Clunkers Bill

By Rusty Hinton, General Sales Manager for LaFayette Ford

If Congress passes the Cash for Clunkers bill, consumers, car dealers, auto manufacturers and our environment will all benefit greatly.

Here’s how it works:

If passed, the bill will give consumers extra money to use on the purchase of a more fuel-efficient vehicle when they trade in their gas-guzzling old one. The money works like cash towards your purchase at the dealership.

Now there are certain criteria that must be met to qualify for this voucher from the government. First, your trade-in has to have been registered and driven by you for at least the past year. This will stop people from going out and purchasing a clunker just to get the voucher. Also, there are certain miles per gallon requirements that must be met to qualify. The exact mpg criteria are still being debated, with 15-18 mpg being the most mentioned. Under one proposed bill, you qualify for $3,500 if you buy a vehicle that gets at least 4 more miles per gallon than your trade-in, and $4,500 if it gets 10 or more miles per gallon more. Your trade-in also has to get 18 mpg or less to qualify.

For larger trucks the mpg qualifications are different. Your trade-in must be rated at 18 mpg or less, and your new vehicle must be at least 2 mpg better for $3,500 and at least 5 mpg better for $4,500.

Not only does the bill give you a lot of extra money towards a more fuel-efficient vehicle, you can still use the cash back rebates offered by your dealer at the time of your purchase! Plus, you can deduct the sales tax on your tax return and, if you buy a hybrid, get a tax credit for that as well!

For more information on this, go to www.energycommerce.house.gov.

Why buy Certified Pre-Owned Vehicles?

By Rusty Hinton, General Sales Manager for LaFayette Ford

By now you have probably heard of “Certified Pre-Owned” vehicles, but few consumers really know what that means. If you are looking for value, reliability and peace-of-mind with your next used car purchase, you should consider buying a certified pre-owned vehicle.

In most cases, certified means that the vehicle was checked over by a mechanic, met certain criteria and has several advantages over your average pre-owned vehicle. Our Ford Certified Pre-Owned vehicles have to pass a rigorous 169-point inspection. Only pre-owned Fords that are less than six years old and have fewer than 80,000 miles are eligible.

Once the vehicle has passed inspection, it gets a brand new set of wiper blades, a full tank of gas, fresh oil and a new oil filter for its next owner to enjoy.

Our Ford Certified Pre-owned vehicles come with 6 year/100,000 mile extended warranties. Not only do we thoroughly check out the vehicle, we’ll stand behind it. Plus, you get 24 hour emergency roadside assistance at no addition charge, too.

In addition to all that great value, at LaFayette Ford you also get the LaFayette Ford Difference, which includes a year’s worth of routine maintenance and three years of interior and exterior protection at no additional charge.

Visit our website at www.lafayetteford.com to see some of our Certified Pre-Owned vehicles on sale now.

 

For more detailed information about the 169-point inspection, visit www.fordcpo.com.