Shopping for a new or used vehicle has never been easier. Fifty years ago, buying a car meant combing through newspaper ads, watching TV spots, and visiting car dealers up and down the expressway. Thankfully, today’s car buyers can quickly research online at home before stepping into a dealership. From comparing models to checking trade-in values, online tools give you the power to make informed decisions and shop with confidence.
At Mike White Ford in Coeur d’Alene and Sandpoint, Idaho, we encourage customers to take advantage of these resources so they feel comfortable and knowledgeable throughout the buying process. Savvy online shoppers can now save a lot of time and get many questions answered, enabling them to narrow down their choices before they set foot in a showroom. By the time they visit a dealer, they can focus on the test drive or other aspects of car-shopping that depend more on “touch and feel.”
Here are several ways to effectively use online tools when researching your next new or used Ford or other vehicle.
1. Explore Vehicle Lineups and Specifications
Manufacturer websites provide detailed information about each model, trim, and package. You can compare horsepower, fuel economy, cargo space, and features to see which vehicle fits your lifestyle. Tools like “build and price” calculators also let you design your ideal car online and get a sense of cost before visiting the dealership.
Dealer websites will give you a clear picture of what vehicles they have in stock, often based on what typically sells in the region. For example, although Mike White Ford in Coeur d’Alene carries a broad range of vehicles, it tends to have more AWD and 4WD vehicles to help residents navigate through North Idaho winters, and a good selection of Ford trucks that are especially popular up here.
2. Read Reviews and Watch Walkthroughs
Independent reviews, expert comparisons, and video walkarounds offer valuable insight into how a vehicle performs in the real world. Whether you’re curious about how the Ford Explorer handles winter roads or how the Ford Escape’s interior feels, these reviews help bridge the gap between specs and an actual driving experience.
Car bloggers and online forums for car enthusiasts can often provide a thorough evaluation of a car you may be interested in, including pros and cons.
3. Check Financing Options and Payment Calculators
Most dealerships, including Mike White Ford, provide online financing tools. Many banks will also provide helpful information. With an online payment calculator, you can estimate your monthly payment by plugging in your down payment, trade-in value, and loan terms. You can also get pre-approved online, saving time at the dealership and giving you a clear picture of your car-purchasing budget.
4. Research Trade-In Values
If you plan to trade in your current vehicle, online trade-in value estimators give you a realistic idea of its worth. Some estimators even provide a means for selling your car online, if you decide not to trade it in. These tools use national and local data, describe current market trends, and help you grade your vehicle’s condition to calculate a fair trade-in range. Having this information upfront enables you to plan your budget and gives you leverage during the buying process.
5. Explore Vehicle History Reports
For used car buyers, online vehicle history reports are essential. Tools like CARFAX or AutoCheck show a vehicle’s accident history, service records, mileage, and ownership background. At Mike White Ford, many of our pre-owned cars come with a CARFAX report so you can shop with peace of mind, knowing exactly where and when your vehicle was purchased, its ownership and service history, and any reported problems or accidents.
6. Compare Insurance Costs
Another smart step before buying a new or used vehicle is to check how your insurance rates may change based on your chosen model. Many insurance companies have online quote tools that allow you to compare potential costs for different Ford vehicles. This helps you consider the total cost of ownership, not just the sticker price.
7. Take Advantage of Dealer Websites
Local dealership websites, like Mike White Ford’s, often list new and used inventory with photos, pricing, and detailed descriptions. You can filter by model, trim, color, mileage, or price to narrow your options. Many sites also offer virtual walkarounds, online chats, and the ability to request additional photos and videos.
Research Smarter, Buy with Confidence
Online tools put more power than ever into the hands of car buyers, equipping them with information, insights, and convenience. Using these tools wisely allows you to compare models, calculate costs, and plan financing before setting foot in the dealership, screening out vehicles that won’t work for your needs and helping you make smarter decisions. When you do visit, you’ll already know what you want and what to expect, making the process faster and less stressful.
At Mike White Ford in Coeur d’Alene, we’re here to help bridge the gap between online research and in-person service. Whether you’re just starting to explore or ready to drive home in a new or used Ford, our team will guide you every step of the way. Start your research on the Mike White Ford website today, and schedule a visit when you’re ready to take a test drive and let our sales and finance teams find you your perfect Ford.