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Getting a driver’s license is an important rite of passage for any teenager. Slipping behind the wheel of that first car is another. If you’re looking for a car for your son or daughter, the choice is extremely important. You want something safe and reliable so you don’t have to worry. Well, at least not about his or her car. There is no shortage of choices out there, but which is best for teen drivers? Homer Skelton Ford of Millington has a list of 2021 Ford vehicles that pass the parent test. Factors to Consider for Teen Drivers You want to consider a few important factors when researching new or used vehicles. The number one thing to remember is the inexperience of teen drivers. They don’t always have the skills or experience to avoid hazards that could lead to an accident or injury. They also haven’t learned enough about defensive driving techniques that would allow them to respond to potential hazards. Teens also tend to be reckless drivers, with issues such as going too fast, ignoring traffic laws, and becoming distracted with the phones or other kids in the car. This makes them more likely to get into an accident. In fact, car accidents are the leading cause of death for teenagers in this country, according to the Centers for Disease Control. Around six teens aged 16-19 die every day in motor vehicle accidents. While your teen might prefer something flashy or luxurious, you need to consider other things, including: Crash avoidance systems Excellent crash test score High safety rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) Strong reliability Positive reviews from respected automotive experts It's a good idea to limit passenger capacity as extra people in the car can add up to major distractions. Another good idea is to avoid cars with too much power. V6 engines are popular on many models, but the power that comes with them may be too much for teen drivers to handle. 2021 Ford Escape While an SUV might not have been at the top of your list, the newest crop of crossovers and mid-size SUVs will make you a little less anxious about sending your teen out into the streets. One of those vehicles is the 2021 Ford Escape. This compact two-row SUV has seating for five, with a sliding second row. If your teen plays sports and has to haul a lot of gear around to practices and games, he or she will enjoy up to 60.8 cubic feet of cargo space. Power and Performance The Ford Escape comes with a standard 1.5-liter 3-cylinder engine, which offers 181 horsepower. The engine is paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission and a choice of Front-wheel drive (FWD) or All-wheel drive (AWD). There is also an optional 2.0-liter 4-cylinder EcoBoost® Engine on the Titanium trim, which enhances output to 250 horsepower. The Ford Escape is also offered in a hybrid edition, which features a 2.5-liter iVCT 4-cylinder engine paired with 2-speed CVT transmission. Safety & Tech Features Safety is key when your “baby” is behind the wheel. The 2021 Ford Escape features Ford Co-Pilot360™, a suite of advanced driver-assist systems that come standard on all trims. As for tech, the Ford Escape really shines. FordPass Connect™ turns this SUV into a Wi-Fi Hotspot. Meanwhile, SYNC® 3 integrates with smart devices via Apple CarPlay™ and Android Auto™, while allowing touchscreen and voice command control of all systems. 2021 Ford F-150 If your teen requires something a little tougher to drive in Millington, the All-New Ford F-150 truck is your best bet. The 2021 edition has been completely redesigned and is tougher and more capable than ever. It’s equipped with an aluminum-alloy body and high-strength steel frame, along with upgraded safety systems and other tech features. It also offers best-in-class available towing and payload capacity, six available engines, including the class-exclusive 3.5-liter PowerBoost™ Full Hybrid V6. 2021 Ford Explorer The 2021 Ford Explorer is a mid-size SUV that offers more luxury and capability. It comes with four available engines, including a 3.0-liter V6, with 4-Wheel drive (4WD) and a Terrain Management System™. The Explorer is also available as a hybrid SUV, with an engine that’s capable of towing 5,000-lbs. You’ll find a suite of high-tech driver-assist systems like Post-Collision Braking, Reverse Brake Assist, and Side-Wind Stabilization. 2021 Ford Mustang While you should be careful about a car that’s too much for an inexperienced driver, there is no denying the popularity of the Ford Mustang. The 2021 edition is available with several engine options, including the standard 2.3-liter 4-cylinder (310-hp) up to a 5.0-liter V8 (480-hp) on the Mach 1 trim. The engines are paired with a 6-speed manual transmission and Rear-wheel drive (RWD). 2021 Ford Edge On the smaller end of things is the 2021 Ford Edge. This SUV has seating for five and up to 73.4 cubic feet of cargo space for your teen’s gear. The 2020 edition earned recognition as an IIHS Top Safety Pick when equipped with adaptive LED headlamps. Capability is here in force, starting with the standard 2.0-liter EcoBoost 4-cylinder (250-hp). There’s also a more athletic 2.7-liter V6 (335-hp). Auto Start-Stop technology with FWD comes standard to help improve fuel efficiency and reduce emissions. The available Intelligent AWD monitors traction and balances torque to help your teen navigate different weather and road conditions. Ford Fusion In recent years, Ford has been phasing out its sedan lineup. However, you can still find them either new or used. The Ford Fusion is a midsize sedan with a bold and stylish design. The eco-friendly Hybrid edition offers an EPA-estimated 43 MPG in the City and 41 MPG on the Highway. Another great option for new teen drivers is the Ford Focus compact sedan. It offers high safety ratings as well as excellent fuel efficiency. Equip Your Teen with the Right Car Buying a car for teen drivers is not something you should take lightly. Your choice can help keep your child safer on the road so you worry less. These options are certainly ones you should consider for your child. Be sure to check out our other new and used Ford models in Millington, TN for your entire family. We're located at 9030 Highway 51 North, Millington, TN 38053.

When your vehicle quits and you have to shop for a new one, you can feel a lot of stress about choosing the right one. At the same time, it's a great opportunity to switch it up and try something new. If you're considering buying a used F150 for your next vehicle, there are some great benefits to know about. Besides a lower price, a used truck delivers other great reasons to make it the best choice for your next vehicle. Take a look below! Save Money When you buy a used Ford F150, you don't have to spend as much as buying new. If you're looking for more value for your money, then a used model is the way to go. You still get all the features of newer trucks without the price tag. Do some research into the different model years and which features come standard. Then you'll know how new or old you want your used vehicle to be. Get Dealer Benefits Buying a Ford truck from a dealer like Homer Skelton Millington Ford means you get all the benefits of working with a reputable dealer without the new car expense. When you buy from a dealer, you can talk with knowledgeable salespeople who can answer your questions. You can negotiate a trade-in deal, and you can take any vehicle for a test drive. Know the History When you buy a used vehicle, you get the benefit of a vehicle history report. This is a record of all the incidents the vehicle has been in, and it follows the VIN. You know that it's the same vehicle because each VIN is unique. Be sure to ask the dealer to check the vehicle's history. Dealers often certify or provide a warranty for their used vehicles, and they won't do that unless they know the history is accident-free or safe for you to drive. Great Gas Mileage When you think of a pickup truck, you don't think about getting great gas mileage. Yet if you look at the F150, you'll be surprised at the fuel economy. During the inspection, the dealer can let you know how the truck is doing when it comes to wear. Most of the time, gas mileage doesn't get worse as vehicles age, so you won't have to worry about that. The F150 gets 20-24 miles to the gallon, depending on the model and year. Double-check the fuel economy before you decide to buy. Chances are you'll love the gas mileage of your used Ford truck. A Used F150 Is Luxurious The interior of a used F150 is the same as a new F150. The cab is roomy and comfortable, with all the comforts you'd expect of a luxury sedan. From modern tech features to plush, heated seats, the F150 has every bit of the versatility you want. After 2015, the truck was made with aluminum alloy that's military grade. It's better than the previous steel frame, and you won't have any trouble if you need a repair. Most body shops have the tools and materials to work on the aluminum without delay. It's got the towing power and strength you need. Ford trucks also have the gorgeous exterior you've come to know and love. You get all that with a used truck, just as much as if you buy new. You Know What to Expect When you buy a used F150, you know about upcoming truck maintenance that needs to happen. With a new car, you forget that there may be standard maintenance that needs to happen because it's new off the lot. Yet with older cars, it makes sense that there might be belts to change or regular care to do so it stays on your radar. The risk of recalls is lower with a used vehicle, too, because the vehicle is older. They've had time to work out the problems and make customers and the company aware of the problems. Chances are you won't have to bring your truck in for recalls when you buy used, because the previous owner has probably had the issue taken care of. Agility Trucks aren't usually known for their handling. Yet a Ford F150 is surprisingly agile for its size and power. These trucks have a tight turning radius and easy driving, whether you're going over rough terrain or a smooth highway. Buying a used Ford truck is a no-brainer when it has smooth handling like the F150. Safety The F150 is a safe vehicle to drive, especially if you're towing something. It comes with auto-braking and lane assistance, as well as cruise control that adapts as you go. The screen for monitoring what you're hauling helps you watch your load and braking system as you go. The five-star safety rating helps, which it earned for the airbags, traction control, running lights during the day, and other safety features. Whether you're hauling your family around the country or a heavy trailer, you can be sure your precious cargo will be safe. You've Got Options Think about what you'll use your truck for. Ask your dealer about the different used Ford F150 options they have, because this model is fully customizable. From a V6 engine to an 8-cylinder, you have options when it comes to towing and Ecoboost selections. Find out about the horsepower and torque that each used model comes with, so you can make the best choice for your family's needs. For better performance and more horsepower, look at the ultimate F150 model, the Raptor. These have 450 horsepower, and they're the top of the line when it comes to Ford trucks. Tricked out models have 10-speed transmissions, although even lower models aren't slacking with their 6-speed transmissions. The Best Truck If you're considering buying a used F150, the reasons above should convince you. The F150 has many awards and safety ratings, and it continually beats the other trucks in its class. From performance and handling to comfort and style, a used Ford truck will be everything you need and more. Contact us at Homer Skelton Millington Ford to set up a test drive today!

If you can’t pay top dollar for a brand-new car, you can consider a used one instead. Of course, you don’t get the glitz and glamour that comes with owning a new car, but a used car can still get you from point A to point B just fine. Opting for a used car instead of a new one is a financially prudent decision, but only if you buy one that’s worth the money. To get the best value for money, you need to ask yourself, "What are the things to check when buying a used car?" You should expect typical wear and tear and sometimes even a few missing parts. In some cases, the car may have taken too much of a beating to be worth the money. However, you can’t tell this from online pictures or a rushed perusal. If you’re in the market for a used car, here a few things you should always check for a proper purchase. What Are the Things to Check When Buying a Used Car? The Basics Buying a car is exciting, but don’t get too caught up in the excitement and forget the important stuff. Before you buy a used car, make sure you first inspect the exterior and interior thoroughly. Then follow up this inspection with an examination of all the relevant documents. The next time you’re buying a used car, remember to check the following things. Vehicle History Report A vehicle history report is typically a third-party service that the dealer pays for. This report details the car’s history, and you can think of it as a vehicle’s background check. In the vehicle’s history report, you’ll find information about the car’s previous owners, any accidents, and prior issues. If you’re buying cars from private owners, then they should run the car history report at their own cost. After test driving the car, the next thing you should ask for is a comprehensive vehicle history report. The Tires The tires speak volumes about how the previous owner kept up with general maintenance. If the tires are too worn out, they might not be legally safe for use on the road. You don’t need good tires just to be in line with the law — driving with worn tires is putting yourself and other passengers in the car at risk too. The first thing to check is the tire tread depth. The tread depth is the depth of the groove on the tires. This depth should be about 8mm when the tires are new. The legal limit for tread depth is 1.6mm, so anything below that is a definite no. You might be wondering how you’ll start measuring the tire treads, but you don’t need an actual ruler. Just plop a coin inside one of the groves, and if you can see the outer band of the coin protruding from the treads, then the tread is too worn. Also, don’t forget to check the spare tire. The spare tire is just as important as the other tires, but it’s easy to forget about it.  Also, check whether the spare tire is full-size or it’s a skinny spare tire. The VIN VIN abbreviates vehicle identification number, which is a number unique to every vehicle. You’ll find the VIN at the bottom of the windscreen or under the bonnet. In some cars, you’ll find it as a stamp on the framework of the car when you lift the bonnet. Once you spot the VIN, write it down and compare it to the one on the V5C registration. If they don’t match, then you may be dealing with a stolen car.  You’re better off looking for another car. Windows and Door Locks Be very keen when inspecting the locks and windows. The slightest signs of forced entry is a huge red flag. That’s because the windows may not open and close normally, plus you may be buying a stolen car. When it comes to the locks, make sure all the locks are the same. If some locks are different, then the car might have been broken into at one point. Ask for an explanation for the different locks, if it doesn’t make sense, then look for another car. Check the Mileage The car mileage will tell you how long the car has been on the road. You want a car with low mileage because it won’t be as worn out as one with higher mileage. However, mileage alone isn’t enough to tell you the general state of the car. Also, keep an eye out for clocked cars. Unscrupulous sellers might rewind the odometer to show lesser mileage, which increases the car’s value. You can tell if the seller tampered with the odometer if the car looks visibly older than what the odometer reads. You should also compare the odometer reading with the ones on official documents. If there’s a huge disparity between the reading on the car and the ones on recent vehicle documents, then you have a problem there. You can also hire a mechanic to check whether the numbers on a mechanical odometer align correctly. The mechanic will conclusively establish whether anyone has tampered with the odometer. Get a Car That’s Worth Every Penny What are the things to check when buying a used car? Now that you know the answer, your next used car purchase should be a breeze. Remember to buy a used car from a trusted dealer and not these gypsy dealers that are here today and gone tomorrow. If you’re buying from a private seller, make sure you buy the car from someone you can trust. If you need quality and registered used cars, then contact us today, and we’ll get you a car that’s worth your money.

Are you looking for your first car or a suitable replacement for what you're driving now? Do you want to avoid spending a large amount of money on a brand new model? If so, then we suggest buying used cars that are still in good enough shape to perform well on the road. However, buying used requires that you consider a variety of factors to get the best bang for your buck. Not only will you need to check on what your prospects have been through, but you'll also need to understand what it will take them to keep them in good condition going forward. With our knowledge of used cars, you can find a vehicle that will provide a great driving experience for years to come. Here are seven key things you should consider before buying a used car. Understanding Potential Uses When it comes to what to do before buying a used car, you must first go over what you plan to use it for. Some of you may have multiple purposes for your vehicle, which can affect how big it will be and how much it will cost. If you have a family or need room to carry equipment for work, then you'll need a car that has multiple seats. You should also consider vehicles that can handle long drives, whether it's for work or a road trip with friends. We also suggest looking at used cars that are still young enough to have the latest high-tech features. If this is a priority for you, then it can help you stay safe while driving through different environments. Creating a Budget Among the top things to do when buying a used car is knowing the kind of vehicle, you can afford. Check out dealerships that offer used cars that allow you to put down a comfortable deposit and make monthly payments. If you're new to budgeting for cars, then we suggest following the 20/4/10 rule. In this case, your down payment should be at least 20 percent of the whole value, the car shouldn't be older than four years, and the total cost of ownership should be more than 10 percent of your pre-tax income. It also helps to check out the auto loans that dealerships in your area have and if you can afford them. These loans can help you create a budget without taking money from other important spending areas in your life. Checking Your Credit Score Part of putting together the money needed for used car prospects is knowing your credit score. This is among the most important things to know before buying a used car because it can affect your chances of affording it even if you have the cash. Spending money when it's needed and having a steady income will give you a credit score that can help you afford a used car. If it doesn't match with the dealership's requirements, then you may need at least a few months to boost it. Once you find a dealership who approves of your credit score, you can negotiate on monthly payments from there. Knowing how to negotiate can save you thousands of dollars in the long-run. Researching Car Histories Buying used cars requires that you know every detail available about the history of the vehicle. The easiest way to go is with online reviews, as they are easy to access and come from personal experience. You also have services such as CARFAX to figure out whether a car has been wrecked or how much cars have been driven and in what environments. Find cars that had the fewest repairs so that you have to make as few as possible going forward. Test Driving Prospects Next is getting a personal feel for the cars you're looking at by giving them a test drive. Do not consider dealerships who don't offer test drives of used cars or are limited in which vehicles have this option. Take these cars for a ride in a variety of environments, including up and down hills or down long highways. It won't hurt to take a drive in the rain to see how it can handle bad weather on the road. Pay attention to the speed of the car, how you feel in the seat, and any sounds that the car shouldn't be making. Stick with the cars that provide an all-around comfortable feel so that you don't miss out on anything. Inspecting Cars Not only will you need to gain an instant good feel for your cars, but you should give it a check-up for conformation. That's where inspections come in, as they make sure that the outside and inside function as the dealer promised. Make sure that the dealer has had a certified mechanic look over the vehicle or take your prospects to a mechanic you can trust and have them look at the engine, frame, and other features. We recommend this  to confirm any potential issues. Make sure to run inspections no matter how reasonable the deal looks or the dealer praises the vehicle. If you are dealing with an individual that is just trying to get rid of the car, then there could be mechanical issues. Preparing to Walk Away The final step in buying used cars is knowing when you need to walk away from a deal. You need to avoid feeling pressured into buying a car. It should be an enjoyable experience. Don't get pressured to buy the first car you look at. You might end up purchasing the car in the end, but we recommend keeping your options open. Dealers should be willing to change deals or help guide you to vehicles that best meet your needs. If in the end you are not satisfied, you can walk away. Buying Used Cars With No Regrets Buying used cars allows you to save money compared to purchasing new models while still enjoying modern features. However, you need to put yourself in a position that makes this process hassle-free. Your budget needs to allow for easy payments on a monthly basis. We also advise testing your prospects out yourself and having a reliable mechanic check for potential issues. With these tips, you can enjoy a safe, comfortable, and fun driving experience with your new vehicle. For more of our auto expertise, check out our guides today to find your next dream car.

You're ready for a new friend this spring—one who will accompany you to work and on your weekend trips faithfully. The question, though, is are you okay if this new friend of yours isn't actually "new" at all? Research shows that the number of used cars being sold in the United States has increased over the past eight years, with nearly 37 million being sold in 2010 versus more than 40 million in 2018. In addition, Ford vehicles were among the top-selling cars in America last year. So, if you're thinking about buying a new vehicle, consider getting a used Ford one instead. Here's a glimpse at the top benefits of purchasing a used Ford vehicle this spring. Let's dig in! Used Ford Cars Offer Years of Options The great thing about a pre-owned Ford vehicle is that a number of options from various years are available to suit your needs. Let's say that you prefer certain features that were packaged together several years back. Or maybe you love a previous generation's styling. The reality is that these things might not be available with a brand-new Ford car or truck. But you could get them on an older vehicle model. In other words, choosing a used vehicle means that you can take advantage of every choice that has been provided for that particular model. And this means you can enjoy greater flexibility when choosing the right Ford for you. Lower Rates of Insurance Purchasing a Ford car that is used will also help you to save on insurance costs. This is because your rate of insurance depends on several factors, including your vehicle's value. Because a used model is not worth as much as a new model is, your insurance rates will not be as high as they are with newer models. This will lead to monetary savings every month! Monetary Savings The chief reason that the majority of people decide to purchase used Ford cars versus new ones is a financial one. Used Ford cars cost a lot less than newer models do. And the older your model is, the more savings you'll enjoy. As a general rule of thumb, your yearly car registration fee amount depends on the value and model year of your car. The fee is usually higher within the first handful of years, and then, it levels off once the car reaches the five-year mark. Reliability A major benefit of choosing a used vehicle made by Ford is that Ford builds cars, pickup trucks and sport utility vehicles to last. Specifically, Ford vehicles are created to last a long time—a minimum of 100,000 miles. So, when you purchase a Ford vehicle, you can rest assured that your new vehicle will last for many years. There’s no reason to sacrifice the overall condition of your car or its reliability simply to get a steal on a used vehicle. Instead, it’s possible to find a used vehicle that is free of scratches and is in excellent shape mechanically. Less Depreciation Less depreciation is yet another major advantage of used Ford cars. When you purchase a new car, rapid depreciation is unavoidable. In fact, the car depreciates the minute you drive it off the new car lot. This hurts the investment you make in any new vehicle—especially during year one. However, if you choose an older car—even one that is just a year old—you’ll save a good chunk of change. For example, let’s say that you bought a car new back in 2008. At the time, the car may have cost you over $25,000. That same car today would maybe cost you about $12,000. So, think of it this way: If you are the original car buyer, then you would have lost $13,000 in the deal. Meanwhile, if you buy the used version of the car, you’ll essentially save yourself $13,000. When you buy a vehicle that is a year or two old, it will still depreciate. However, you won’t lose as much money as quickly. Fewer Extras Another reason to spring for a used Ford car instead of a new vehicle? You won’t have to pay for all of the extras that come with newer cars. These extras may range from an anti-rust coat to a pinstripe or protective film. There are two problems with purchasing a new car that comes with these perks. First, you may not necessarily want these perks, yet you’re paying for them anyway. Second, these perks won’t add any money to your vehicle’s resale value. If you decide to buy a used car, you might not necessarily get all of the extra features you want. However, you may still be able to install them from one of today’s after-market installers. How We Can Help We offer a number of used Ford vehicle options designed to meet your practical needs and style wishes. Our vehicle models include the following: Ranger F-150 Explorer Edge Escape Mustang Fusion Focus Expedition And more… The great thing about our company is that we're not your average seller of used cars. Instead, we sell certified pre-owned vehicles. This means that all of our used cars are under six years of age. In addition, their mileage must be under 80,000. Our vehicles have to pass an extensive inspection process before they can be certified as well. We abide by these standards because we are passionate about ensuring that you get a modern car that has a lot of life remaining on it. Get in touch with us today to find out more about the benefits of used Ford cars and how you can find your favorite one to take home today.