My dad told me that if I ever wanted a true muscle-car, I’d better stick to a Mustang. I’m not really keen on maintaining a true classic from the ‘60s, if I could actually get my hands on one. Would it be a loss if I stuck it out with a late model Mustang? I’m sure the local Houston, Texas Ford guys are raring to give me a good pitch. I’d like to hear what the guys in here have to say first before I take on the dealers.

Bobby Lee

Houston, TX

Bobby, yeah, your dad hit the nail on the head. But, you know, I also agree with you completely. If it isn’t really part of your talents to get all greased up maintaining a classic, you’d better go for the latter models. Good thing the boys at Ford had “classic” in mind when launched the Mustang for the 21st century. After all, why tinker with classic looks that still make heads turn, right? Bobby Lee, it is okay to get behind the wheel of a late model Mustang in Houston, Texas. Just be ready for some envious stares.

Anyway, from 2005 to the current model year, you’ll notice the obvious “classic Mustang look” that you are probably familiar with from TV and movies. I’ll term it as a “rebirth” and that should answer the issue of owning a classic-year Mustang on your end. And as real-live mustangs gallop with a thundering pride, the Ford Mustang packs 300 horsepower with its V8 engine found in the GT model. That should give you a rush driving on the highway. Think Steve McQueen in Bullitt. Handling for the 2008/2009 models are also improved compared to 2005. One thing though, the fuel economy, which I’ve heard is at 19 mpg, is not really for those with bad memories and nightmares of $4 per gallon of gas. But since you are looking for a Mustang to drive, that is not really a problem for you.

See you on the highways.

What’s wrong with people? You could be saving a lot of money. I don’t get that. All you have to do is look around to find out what the car you want to buy is really worth, not just accept whatever all of the Ford dealerships in Houston Texas tell you. They might point out to one price is final, but I’ve found that that is never true. Every time I’ve bought a car from one of the Ford dealerships in Houston Texas, they’ve told me that was the final price, and I’ve managed to get something lower.

First you need to go to something like Kelley’s Blue Book. That’s a ‘book’ (well, I look at it online) that tells you how much your car is worth. You can figure out its value based on the condition, whether it’s new or used, whatever, and you should get that information before you go to one of the Ford dealerships in Houston Texas.

Another thing is to look around and see what all of the Ford dealerships in Houston Texas are offering. Some have better prices than others, so that’s a big hint right there of where you should go to get your car, chief.

A: Yikes…there are a lot of Ford dealerships in Houston. I don’t think I could count them on my two hands, but I could be wrong. If you want to know what the best one is, it’s Planet Ford, easily. But, really, the Ford dealerships in Houston are of pretty good quality. I’ve only been to a couple of them, but I know a lot of people who have been to the others and they have a lot of good things to say.

• Planet Ford.

There are three locations. I live by the one that’s on I-45 in the Spring area, but there’s also one near Humble on I-59 and closer to Houston on Highway 6 south. Right now you can sign up for an instant savings certificate at their website and save five hundred dollars on whatever car you buy.

• Mac Haik Ford.

Mac Haik Ford is one of the few Ford dealerships in Houston that allows you to apply for a car loan online, which is pretty good, especially if you have bad credit. I know that it’s kind of embarrassing when you’re in the tiny room and the salesperson comes in to tell you that your credit is terrible and you’ll have to pay a billion dollars a month. It’s nice to be able to get that from a distance. haha

Mac Haik Ford is among the many Ford dealerships in Houston that are located on I-10, so if you want to brave the construction madness down there, all power to you. You can make it easier for yourself by applying online and scheduling a test drive online.

• Lonestar Ford.

This is the car dealership for true Texans, or so my brother in law says. Among the Ford dealerships in Houston, Lonestar does really stand out. I think one of the greatest things about them is that they have so many specials, and they have new ones every week. I just checked them out online, and there’s like fifteen specials there, and on some pretty nice cars.

A: You asked at just the right time, because I live in Northwest Houston right down the road from Joe Myers Ford. They’re always advertising about their specials and I drive past them everyday. My brother in law bought his Houston Ford truck from them two years ago (it was a pre owned F-150, and in great condition with an excellent warranty, too–I got to drive it recently and I’m a little jealous).

There are a lot of specials right now for someone who wants to buy a pre owned Houston Ford truck. Let me get my piece of paper, because I wrote them down for a friend who is looking for a car.

• 2007 Ford Explorer Sport Trac.

The MSRP on this one was $25,495, and now it’s just five dollars under twenty thousand. So that’s, what? $5,500 in savings? It’s practically brand new, too, and, as Joe Myers Houston Ford truck dealer says, ‘quality checked’.

• 2003 Ford F-150.

This one if very cheap. It was originally $14,595, and now it’s going for $12,995. That isn’t a huge savings, but it’s still a pretty low price for a car that’s relatively new. Like I said about my brother’s car, the F-150 Houston Ford truck is excellent.

• 2005 Ford F-350 Super Duty.

This one has hardly any difference in price. Before the price cut, it came in at $33,995, and now it’s just a mere thousand dollars less. You could do better, especially considering that this is more expensive than a brand new car. I like the design, though, and it’s more for someone who is into the whole beast machine Houston Ford truck.

• 2001 Ford F-150.

This was going for $24,995, and now it’s six thousand less than that. That’s a pretty good cut in price, but I wonder if that’s right for the depreciated value? It’s probably because it’s in great condition or has a warranty.

What must be done when searching and receiving Ford free insurance quotes in Houston?

Queenie

Houston Texas

With the increased number of insurance providers across the state, almost all of them are offering Ford free insurance quotes to their clients. But not everyone is equipped to understanding and performing the necessary acts before applying for the said type of insurance.

Before anything else, you must investigate the insurance company you want to have your Ford vehicle insured in Houston. Reputation, client feedbacks and financial stability must be taken into consideration. It is imperative that apart from getting Ford free insurance, the protection of your assets as well as your own financial welfare is also prioritized. Make sure to be comparing more than 3 different insurance companies. Check these companies’ competitors and also request for their rates. This will aid you in enhancing your comparison of insurers because every insurance company may vary in their types of coverage and policy rates.

It is not only important to choose a well-rounded policy, but also a useful one. There are car insurance coverage types that include “extra” car services such as extra car rental services provided under comprehensive and collision coverage types. It looks attractive on the surface but you have to assess yourself first if this “extra” service can better serve you on a daily basis. If not, you can delete it from your policy thus, decreasing your car insurance rates.

After inspecting the rates, narrow down your choices with the ones favorable to you and contact them one by one. During the conversation, address clarifications to their agent and acquire as much information as you can. You have to make sure that the needs you demand from these companies must be met. Otherwise, you can jump unto the next insurer listed.

Clients must be wary not to be lured with free insurance quotes given online such as a Ford free insurance in Houston. Above everything else, it is important to read the terms and conditions of your chosen policy before you sign up and entrust your future to them.

What are the tips in buying Ford insurance for your Ford vehicle?

Madison

Miami FL

When you own a car, may it be Ford or any other vehicle, it is best to insure it. This will adequately give protection to your car in the event it will incur accidents and provide financial security to the insured for any damages or repairs caused by the accident. With the influx of insurance companies these days, it will no longer be difficult to locate and purchase the best Ford insurance policy for your vehicle. But before you do that, here are a few tips to guide you.

First, you must do the necessary research about the type of insurance company you want to deal with. Make sure it is financially solid and can provide protection to your assets. Gather and review the feedbacks given by its previous and recent clients. This will give you a picture on the company’s services and the satisfaction it gives to its clients.

Determine also the price of your chosen Ford insurance policy. Ask for quotes beforehand and check the rates. Not only that. There are certain factors considered in deciding the cost of an auto insurance plan. Your insurance rates can be affected by the cost of the car, repair expenses, safety and chances of the vehicle getting robbed. These, too, must be included during your inspection.

Choosing a policy with higher deductibles can also lower the cost of your policy. In addition, your Ford insurance rate changes depending on the worth of the Ford vehicle you choose. So, if you bought a new Ford vehicle, the coverage can be higher but if you bought an already used Ford vehicle, coverage can be lower. If you own another car, it would be best to insure your car to the same insurer of your first car, as well as your home insurance, in order to get discounts.

Credit history also plays a vital role in keeping your insurance costs low. This is because insurance providers run a credit check on its applicants. So, if you keep a clean and good credit history, the rates of your auto insurance can be affordable.

Low mileage discounts are also provided by insurers. The lesser miles you drive on your Ford vehicle, the lower the insurance costs will be.

So, when you buy a Ford vehicle, make sure to get it insured. And during the process of insuring, take these tips with you and take advantage of low cost and money saving strategies.

I am planning to get a new car in Houston. This time, I am considering getting a Ford car. Is it easy to get car insurance for ford?

Carl

Houston Texas

Ford has recently developed cars that are car-insurance friendly. Their new line of cars are designed that they will be cheaper to repair and maintain which can help the car owners to get lower auto insurance premiums. This is just quite fitting in this time of financial crisis.

Ford is also joining the bandwagon of car companies, nowadays, which has special offer special promos to shoulder a certain percentage of the car insurance premium of new Ford card owners. Ford also offers its new owners the payment protection plan. Payment protection plan gives protection to someone who loses his job. Ford will pay the car insurance for 1 year if you lose your job. These are quite good reasons to own a Ford car now.

Ford also has a Ford Motor Company Insurance Services where their customers can get car insurance for ford vehicles. The Ford Motor Company Insurance Services works with selected various car insurance companies. This is to ensure that ford car owners has a way to receive quality protection. This program provides venue for the Ford car owners to get different quotes from the participating insurance companies.

Those who get insurance for ford from them can have the following benefits:

• $100 discount from your collision deductible
• Authentic auto parts
• Guaranteed workmanship
• Fast claims processing
• Discounts when you get multiple policies

They also cited that getting insurance for ford through them can give you a savings of up to $494.97 annually. Another benefit their insurance can provide you is having your repairs done right with their selected repair shops.

The benefits promised by Ford Motor Company Insurance Services are quite good which are worth checking. But before you decide to go for their service, you might want to check other insurance companies not related to Ford. You might be able to get a better deal from the outside market.

Are SUV’s harder to insure?

Blair

Houston Texas

SUV insurance companies set rates according to the specific model you drive, where you reside, driving record, your credit history, and the safety equipment installed in your vehicle, you can utilize the following strategies in keeping your premium rates low, attainable and money-saving.

Shop around. As the saying goes, “collect then select.” This is well utilized whenever you are out on a quest in finding the cheapest rate that you could possibly find. Applying for free quotes is the best way to accomplish this. It will surprise you with how much rates on similar coverage can vary from one insurer to another.

Be smart. Before driving away in a new SUV, ask your insurance agent as to the kind of rates you will be expecting from that specific vehicle. If the rates are more than what you have planned, consider taking a different model.

Be a defensive driver. Keeping your driving record as clean as possible will give you lower rates upon application. So keep eye on the road, hands on the wheel and always be a defensive driver in order to prevent accidents.

High credit score. Taking responsibility in paying your bills full and on time will guarantee you higher chances in acquiring lower rates.

Safety equipment on your SUV. Aside from protecting your life against road mishaps, installing safety gadgets such as airbags, anti-lock brakes, and park assist will keep you from colliding with another vehicle or worse, damaging your car. This will put you at lesser risk for accidents.

1. Buy your home and car insurance from the same company. Insurers are always after the money. And applying your SUV and home insurance within the same company will totally delight them. Thus, giving you the privilege of obtaining cheaper SUV insurance rates.

2. Group insurance. If you are a member of an auto club, you can qualify for lower rates with a particular insurer.

In conclusion, driving your SUV and keeping your SUV insurance rates are not mutually exclusive. Therefore, take advantage of cost-saving strategies, free quotes and customized policy made specifically for you.

I’m thinking of buying a used car for my son—something made in the US, I’m thinking. What do you think of the Ford Taurus?

Herbert

Houston, TX

If you’re thinking of buying a second-hand Ford Taurus, you’d be pleased to know that it is relatively more inexpensive than a same-year Toyota Camry or Honda Accord. In fact, before those two Japanese-manufactured cars, the Taurus was the best-selling passenger car in the United States. Also, since it’s made in the good old US of A (points for your patriotism right here), any repair shop can handle the looking after, and it’s cheaper to maintain. Of course, the drawback is that it depreciates faster.

As for the engine, what the Taurus features is a 3.5-liter 263-horsepower 6-speed automatic. It has 17-inch wheels and power seats, and is offered in two trims: the SEL and the Limited. The standard offer is 4-wheel drive, but you can get an all-wheel drive in either trim.

The interior, though as basic (some say drab) as it is, offer ample legroom both front and back, plenty of storage space, with controls that are logically arranged.

And I’m sure that you’d be relieved to know that probably the best of the Taurus’ characteristics is its estimable safety ratings. It has air bags, great chassis and an SOS-Post Crash Alert System. This just might mean less sleepless nights for you when your son goes out driving.

And as a final point: it may not score any points for flashiness (which I’m sure is the least of your priorities, anyway), but it sure is perfect for a family-friendly sedan.

I’d like a Ford that has the versatility of a pick-up and something I can use for a daily drive around Texas. What can you recommend?

Norman

Houston, TX

Howdy, Norman! So you, Norman, wants something not of the normal variety. Looking at the Ford line-up, I’m inclined to recommend that you test drive the 2009 Ford Sport Trac. Ford made this to have the functional features of a pick-up but having the style and comfort of an SUV. Nice, isn’t it? Now, that should be other than the normal cars, SUVs, and pick-ups you see daily on the roads of Texas.

The Ford motor company built this thing on the Explorer platform so you can expect some SUV-like qualities to the interiors that meet Ford SUV standards. That should take care of your daily driving comfort. In terms of powering this truck/ SUV, there’s a standard 4.0 V6 with 5 speed automatic transmission, powerful enough to crank out 210 horsepower. If you want more from the Sport Trac, you can try the available V8 engine trim that churns 292 horses with about 300 lbs-ft of torque. This will come in handy if you decide to bring a lot of stuff with you. If you’re more of a “drive anywhere” person, there’s four wheel drive available for the Sport Trac as an option for the rear-wheel drive base model. So there, the Sport Trac is that versatile vehicle for you, Norman.