Blog

Can You Trade In A Car For A Used Car?: A Comprehensive Guide The decision to part ways with a beloved Ford and embark on a new automotive journey is often complex after you’ve created memories and been on countless adventures with your ride. However, things in life happen and sometimes you need to learn if you can trade in a car for a used car. Understanding the trade-in options available is a key factor in this process, and Crossroads Ford of Kernersville is here to help you navigate the intricacies of trading in a Ford vehicle. These include delving into the potential benefits, considerations, and factors influencing the decision-making process. To answer your question, “Can I trade in my car for a used car?” continue reading on, and we’ll inform you of what you need to know! The Flexibility of Ford Trade-Ins Ford dealerships have long recognized the value of offering flexible trade-in options to their customers. Whether you're driving a pristine Ford Mustang or a well-loved Ford Explorer, chances are your vehicle holds trade-in value. This flexibility is a boon for Ford owners seeking to upgrade, downgrade, or simply change their ride. Whether you have your sights set on a Ford F-150 that’s seen some action or a pre-owned Ford Escape of your favorite model year, trading in your current vehicle can streamline the purchasing process. Timing Your Trade-In: A Delicate Balance You’re probably asking yourself, “Can I trade in a used car I just bought?” The short answer is yes, but while the allure of a shiny new model may be tempting, impulsive decisions can sometimes lead to financial drawbacks. If you’re wondering if you should trade in your car after two years, it's best to know that doing so might not yield the best return on investment due to depreciation. However, exceptions exist. If your Ford has suffered unforeseen mechanical issues or if your financial situation has changed dramatically, trading in sooner rather than later might be a prudent move. This leads to the age-old dilemma of whether you should trade in your car or sell it privately. Each option carries its own set of advantages and disadvantages. Trading in your car for a used car offers convenience and speed. Dealerships typically provide a quick valuation and handle the paperwork, saving you time and effort. However, the trade-in value might be lower than what you could potentially fetch by selling the vehicle privately. On the other hand, trading a car for a used car can be a more lucrative option. You have full control over the pricing and can potentially maximize your return. However, this route demands significantly more time and effort. You'll need to advertise your vehicle, field inquiries, negotiate with potential buyers, and handle the paperwork yourself. The Benefits of Trading In Your Car with Crossroads Opting to trade in your Ford at our dealership comes with several advantages beyond convenience. One of the most compelling benefits is the potential to offset the cost of your new vehicle. The trade-in value can be applied as a down payment or towards the overall purchase price, making the transition smoother. Moreover, we offer competitive trade-in appraisals, maximizing your investment from our expertise in vehicle valuation that can help you secure a fair price. Additionally, trading in your car for a used car can simplify the financing process as we factor the trade-in value into your loan towards your next vehicle. Factors Affecting Trade-In Value Several factors influence whether you can trade in your car for a used one, including the vehicle's age, mileage, condition, and overall demand in the market. Well-maintained Fords with low mileage typically command higher trade-in values, while vehicles with extensive wear and tear or mechanical issues will likely fetch less. The specific Ford model and trim level also impact value. Popular models like the Ford Mustang or Ford F-150 tend to hold their value better than less in-demand options. Economic conditions can also affect the value of trading in your car for a used car. A strong economy generally benefits vehicle values, while economic downturns can lead to lower trade-in offers. Ready to Trade? The decision to trade in your car for a used car is one that requires careful consideration. By understanding the factors influencing trade-in value, weighing the pros and cons of trading in versus selling privately, and exploring the benefits offered by dealerships, you can make an informed choice that aligns with your financial goals and automotive desires. Remember, whether you're aiming for a used Ford Bronco to revitalize its traveling into the wild, an efficient Ford Expedition for spacious journeys, or any model you intend to buy, the trade-in process can be a smooth and rewarding experience when approached strategically. Let our helpful staff at Crossroads Ford of Kernersville be your guide to help you trade in your car for a used car today! Value Your Trade

Knowing What Is The Best Year To Buy A Used Ford Explorer The Ford Explorer is a mainstay in the mid-size SUV segment that offers a compelling blend of space, capability, and comfort. From utilizing the space for family and luggage to being your reliable commuter and more, the Ford Explorer is a versatile vehicle for everyone’s needs. With numerous model years to choose from, determining the best used Ford Explorer can be daunting. Not to worry, because Crossroads Ford of Kernersville will help you find out what the best year to buy a used Ford Explorer is in order to guide your decision. A Look at the Ford Explorer’s History: The Best & The Worst Years The Ford Explorer boasts a rich history, debuting in 1990 and continuing to extend into its current sixth generation with distinct characteristics. Understanding these variations is crucial when embarking on your search to discover what is the best year to buy a used Ford Explorer. The Best Years of the Used Ford Explorer 2001: With a responsive steering wheel, a solid and trucklike character, and versatility in towing and power output, the 2001 model year was in a league of its own. Seating comfort was excellent, as was getting in and out, especially if optional running boards were equipped. Up to 80 cu.ft. of cargo space was also available for all your needs. 2009: Having received an 85 out of 100 from J.D. Power for quality and reliability, this model year capitalized on the towing capabilities. Ford Trailer Sway Control became a standard feature that set a precedent for further improvements in the following years. This was also a smooth ride overall, thanks to the rear independent suspension, allowing the 2009 Ford Explorer to steady itself on rough pavement. 2018-2019: The option to equip a 2.3L Turbocharged EcoBoost® I-4 engine was introduced in 2017. This offered the 2018 and 2019 Ford Explorer models better fuel economy than previous generations. An EPA-estimated 22 MPG paired with a front-wheel drive made it a dependable ride, plus updated Ford driver assist and infotainment technologies offer a more modern used ride. The Worst Years of the Used Ford Explorer 1998: One extensive recall was related to the speed control system, which could leak and overheat, leading to a fire risk. Issues with the tires and engine/engine cooling system were also prevalent. However, while the 1998 Ford Explorer had its fair share of troubles, the succeeding third generation was the most troublesome. 2002-2004: This particular range was considered the worst for Ford Explorer models. Specifically, the 2002 model year was the least reliable because it had the most complaints and the most recalls. Looking into them further, a blinking O/D light, transmission issues, trouble shifting, and wheel/hub problems are among the most common complaints. Overall, when you’re wondering what the best year to buy a used Ford Explorer is, it all comes down to a number of factors, like how often you drive, when and where you drive, and the kind of utility you use for your ride. Without question, however, the 2002 model is not the best year to buy a Ford Explorer. Beyond the Year: Considering Ford Blue Advantage & Additional Factors While the model year plays a crucial role for any vehicle, it's not the only factor to consider. Ford has a Ford Blue Advantage™ program that consists of quality certified pre-owned models that are distinguished from regular pre-owned vehicles in a handful of ways. Ford Blue Advantage vehicles pass a thorough multipoint inspection and include Comprehensive Limited Warranty Coverage, 24-hour Roadside Assistance, FordPass® Rewards Points, and are a maximum of ten years old, depending on the certification level. The extra cost for these perks is worth it when you’re looking to determine the best year to buy a certified pre-owned Ford Explorer via Ford Blue Advantage. All used options come with a thorough CARFAX™ Vehicle History Report to inform you of everything it’s been through in its journey. You should also consider the trim levels and upgradable features that were present across the years, as each one brings a unique flavor to deciding what the best year for a Ford Explorer is. For example, the 2001 Ford Explorer had options to upgrade to leather seating for a more luxury experience. The 2009 Ford Explorer capitalized on towing, but also had options for an updated navigation system with SiriusXM Travel Link®. Meanwhile, the 2018 and 2019 Ford Explorer Platinum trim levels contained premium features like a panoramic sunroof and power-adjustable pedals. Considering all these factors, what is the best year to buy a used Ford Explorer? That’s up to you to decide. A Used Ford Explorer Can Be a Smart Choice By visiting each Ford Explorer generation with all they had to offer as well as additional factors, you can confidently answer the question, “Should I buy a used Ford Explorer?” Your ideal options are the fourth and fifth-generation models, as these years generally meet the demands of the modern daily driver. Truthfully, anything but the third generation, or models produced from 2002-2005, can be a good choice, depending on what you’re looking for. However, with careful research and guidance from our staff at Crossroads Ford of Kernersville, you can figure out what the best year to buy a used Ford Explorer is! SHOP NOW

What is the Best Year to Buy a Used Ford Escape? Finding Your Perfect Fit Known for its blend of practicality, affordability, and maneuverability, the Ford Escape has carved a niche for itself in the compact SUV market, making it a popular choice for families and individuals alike. But with several generations, navigating what year is the best to buy a used Ford Escape can be tricky. At Crossroads Ford of Kernersville, we’ll delve into the world of these used vehicles, exploring how good some Ford Escape models are according to their year, reliability, and overall value proposition. A History of Compact SUV Capability The Ford Escape debuted in 2001. The body style of the Ford Escape has changed over the years to reflect consumer preferences and technological advancements. The Ford Escape offered a comfortable ride and a choice between two engines: a 2.0L four-cylinder and a powerful 3.0L V6. It went through several redesigns over the years, adding features to improve fuel efficiency, and expanding engine options. However, there was a fair share of what worked and what didn’t work. This information will help you decide what the best year to buy a used Ford Escape is. Are Used Ford Escapes Reliable? A Balanced Look The reliability of used Ford Escapes can vary depending on the model year. Many later models came equipped with advanced safety features like Automatic Emergency Braking, which contributed to their improved reliability ratings. However, some of the earlier models, particularly those from 2005 to 2009, were regarded as the worst years to own a Ford Escape. Reported issues involved the transmission and steering. These early models also faced problems with engine failure, including coolant leaks and misfires. It’s easy to see why these weren’t the best years to buy a Ford Escape. The 2013 and 2014 models were part of the engine and transmission problems too, which affected their overall reliability. The later models, including the 2015, 2019, and 2020 Ford Escape model years, have shown significant improvement in reliability. These pivotal models will be used to help you decide what the best year to buy a used Ford Escape is. The Sweet Spot: Top Picks for the Best Ford Escape Years While the Ford Escape has its share of ups and downs across its history, specific model years stand out as the best years for their reliability and value. We’ll delve deeper into the top contenders of what the best used Ford Escape to buy was: 2015 Ford Escape: After some earlier hiccups, the redesign in 2013 brought numerous improvements to the 2015 Ford Escape, allowing it to emerge as a reliable option. It benefitted from a spacious interior, a comfortable ride, and a range of engine options, including the fuel-efficient 1.6L EcoBoost® engine. While some issues with this engine have been reported, the overall dependability of the 2015 model year makes it a compelling choice. This model was also praised for its agile handling, providing a smooth and nimble driving experience. 2019 & 2020 Ford Escape: The 2019 and 2020 models further refined the formula of efficiency and class, as they boasted a stylish design, a well-equipped interior with advanced tech features, and a smooth-shifting transmission. It won’t be hard to see why these are among the best years to buy a Ford Escape. The 1.5L engine in the 2019 model delivered an impressive EPA-estimated fuel economy of up to 23 MPG city and 30 MPG highway, making it ideal for budget-conscious buyers, daily commuters, and part-time adventurers. The 2019 and 2020 models also offer advanced safety features like Adaptive Cruise Control to further enhance the driving experience. It’s important to remember that a vehicle’s history plays a crucial role in determining what the best year to buy a Ford Escape is. Regular maintenance and a clean vehicle history report are essential factors to consider when purchasing any used car, including a Ford Escape. Numerous owners have reported positive experiences with their Ford Escapes, emphasizing the importance of diligent maintenance and thorough history checks. Finding Your Perfect Escape The Ford Escape model offers a compelling proposition in the used car market. Choosing the right Ford Escape year is crucial to ensure you get a reliable and well-performing vehicle. It provides a good balance of functionality, comfort, and affordability. By focusing on the 2015, 2019, and 2020 model years, you can find a reliable ride that suits your needs. Remember to prioritize a well-maintained vehicle with a clean history report for optimal performance and peace of mind. With careful research and due diligence, Crossroads Ford of Kernersville is here to help you navigate what year is the best to buy a used Ford Escape. SHOP NOW