We live in a world that values the opportunity for digital innovation to shape virtually every retail experience, and automotive shopping is no different. With customers looking for efficiency and transparency, buying a Ford online is a viable and popular consideration. It allows you to build your vehicle from scratch or purchase a car from existing inventory with the click of a few buttons. Ford simplifies the entire process, from searching the existing inventory to watching your new vehicle park in the driveway.
The Rise of Online Car Shopping
Market researchers predict the global automotive e-commerce market will exceed $343 billion by 2032. North America has a projected 34% market share, indicating the demand for a digital-first vehicle purchasing experience. Ford uses its relatively strong online retail infrastructure to meet modern consumer expectations.
Understanding the Benefits of Digital Auto Purchases
There are numerous benefits to purchasing a vehicle online, including:
- Flexibility and convenience: You can view models, review trim options, and research packages from your laptop, tablet, or smartphone.
- Transparent pricing: Access incentives, trade-in values, and financing tools without leaving home.
- Wide inventory access: You can locate the most convenient dealership to purchase from or access Ford’s inventory nationwide in real time.
- Mobile-optimized experience: Over 55% of Ford.com visitors shop from a smartphone or tablet.
Steps to Buying a Ford Online
Let’s review the steps involved in purchasing a Ford vehicle online:
How to Begin Your Online Ford Purchase
First, head to your local dealership’s digital storefront or consider purchasing through Ford’s intuitive and user-friendly e-commerce experience. Like a typical online shopping experience, you can shop your local inventory. You can also compare trims and see monthly payment estimates based on your budget in one place.
Selecting the Perfect Model for Your Needs
Online shopping makes it easy to find your ideal vehicle:
- SUVs and cars: From the versatile Escape to the upscale Edge, you can use online filters to sort by fuel economy, cubic feet of cargo storage, prices, and features.
- Trucks and vans: You can build your new F-150 or explore commercial vans for your business.
- Electric and hybrid options: Compare models such as the Mustang Mach-E or the F-150 Lightning, which helped generate a 38% increase in electrified Ford sales in 2024.
- Performance vehicles: Enjoy the exhilaration of performance with models such as the Mustang GT or the Bronco Raptor.
Exploring Features and Upgrades
The Ford car configurator lets you select a model designed precisely to your taste. You can choose paint colors, upholstery materials, tech packages, and optional features.
Using Ford’s Build and Price Tool
Go to Ford’s Build and Price tool and walk through each configuration stage. You’ll see pricing and availability updates for everything from drivetrain to infotainment options. This holistic approach ensures a fully informed, immersive shopping experience.
Benefits of Online Shopping Versus Dealership Visits
Online shopping offers a number of benefits:
- Speed: You’ll save time by not waiting at the dealership for the salesperson to return with numbers, as you can complete most of the process in one attempt.
- Comfort: You can peruse, plan, and compare from the comfort of your own house.
- Broader access: You’ll be able to cross-shop multiple locations and delivery times without having to visit each one.
Potential Challenges and How To Overcome Them
When it comes to questions about vehicle inspection or what to expect with any paperwork processes, the dealership provides communication tools during online shopping. It may also offer a virtual sales or finance team appointment to help answer your questions. Many online dealerships that deliver directly to your doorstep also provide an in-home test-drive and a return window or trial period.
Overview of Ford’s Financing Options
Ford provides adaptable financing options to help you decide whether to purchase or lease your vehicle:
- Standard purchase: This is a conventional financing option that allows you to own your vehicle for a long time.
- Flex buy plans: A hybrid finance/lease option specifically crafted to be more affordable in the short term.
- Red carpet lease: A top-of-the-line option for customers who want to upgrade every few years.
You can use online tools such as the Ford Payment Calculator to see what your monthly payment would be on the vehicle you’re interested in. Seasonal specials are often available, such as Ford’s 0% APR financing on select models, when you apply through the online portal.
Finalizing Your Purchase and Delivery
Once you’ve finalized the construction or chosen a model from the in-stock fleets or personal order, complete the secure checkout process for credit applications, trade estimates, and final pricing.
Many Ford dealerships now offer the option of having your new vehicle delivered to your home. This involves the delivery of the vehicle, a walkthrough of features and benefits, and the signing of paperwork at your front door.
New Ford models come with a 4-year/50,000-mile warranty. You also enjoy the convenience of scheduling service online, the opportunity to earn FordPass rewards, and mobile service at select locations.
FAQ About Buying a Ford Online
Here are some frequently asked questions about buying a Ford online:
Can I Test-Drive a Vehicle Before Completing My Online Ford Purchase?
Absolutely. While circumstances may vary by dealership, many will offer home test-drives or allow you to come in person during the online buying process to learn more about the vehicle before you purchase it.
What if I Want To Trade in My Current Vehicle?
Many online sites have instant trade-in value tools, and most allow you to apply that value to your new purchase of a Ford.
Is Online Car Buying Safe and Secure?
Yes. Ford’s official e-commerce tools and certified Ford dealerships offer encrypted sites and tools to help you purchase your vehicle and protect your payment and other information.
Visit Titus-Will Ford Today
Whether you’re ready to start customizing a Mustang Mach-E or scheduling delivery of your next F-150, Titus-Will Ford is here to support your online shopping experience. We can answer your questions, showcase our inventory, set up a test-drive, and review financing options to get you into the Ford vehicle of your dreams. Call our sales team at 253-356-8021, visit us at 3606 South Sprague Ave. in Tacoma, or contact our team to start your Ford ownership journey.
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