Ford Just Made It Easier For First-Time Buyers To Get Approved

First-Time Car Buyers

First-time car buyers are a distinct segment of the market; they represent the emerging market and are valued by the brand differently from current buyers. The buyers in this group are also the most curious and budget-conscious.

Ford is properly recognizing this segment by amending some of the rules for the First Time Buyers program, which could entice more new car buyers to the brand.

A Ford For Everyone

According to a report by CarsDirect, Ford has released a bulletin to dealers highlighting changes to the First-Time Buyer Program. In the bulletin, the automaker is lowering its minimum credit score to 620, and the new minimum down payment is now $720. The biggest update, though, is the expansion of the program's model list. The list of eligible cars doubles from 5 to 10 models, including some higher-priced models.

This newly refreshed buyer's program will take effect next month on July 7. In effect, this will give buyers with limited credit histories a better chance of getting financing through Ford dealers. Currently, the minimum credit score is 640, and the minimum down payment is $1,000, which makes the new $750 rate a significant reduction.

Longer Term Deals

At the moment, the program is only eligible for the Ford Escape, Bronco Sport, Ranger, Mustang Mach-E, and Maverick. Once the new program rules kick in next month, the list will expand to include the Explorer, Bronco, F-150, F-150 Lightning, and Mustang. Notably missing from that list is the F-150 Raptor, which is usually excluded from Ford rebates anyway.

A major consideration for buyers is also the monthly rate. What's the point of lower entry payments if they can't afford the monthly payments? Thankfully, Ford has also considered extending the loan term from 72 to 84 months. Another key benefit of the new program is that buyers will be eligible for Ford's Max Tier 1 rate when buying or leasing.

This new program is likely a supplement to the employee pricing promo, which hasn't really translated to more sales.

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