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Ford Financing Explained: Pre-Approval, Credit and What to Bring

· 2 min read
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Financing a vehicle doesn't have to be confusing. Whether this is your first vehicle or your tenth, here's how the process works at Daystar Ford of Garrettsville and how to show up prepared.

How Dealership Financing Works

When you finance through a dealership, the finance team submits your application to lenders, which can include Ford Credit, banks and credit unions. Lenders respond with the terms they're willing to offer, and we walk you through the options so you can choose the one that fits.

Start With Pre-Approval

Getting pre-approved before you shop tells you what you can comfortably spend and saves time at the dealership. You can get pre-approved online from home, then use our payment calculator to try different prices, terms and down payments.

What Affects Your Rate and Payment

  • Credit history: your score and payment history are the biggest factors in the rate a lender offers.
  • Down payment: more money down means less to finance and a lower monthly payment.
  • Loan term: a longer term lowers the payment but usually means paying more interest overall.
  • Trade-in value: equity in your current vehicle works like a down payment. Value your trade before you come in.
  • New vs. used: rates and available terms often differ between new, certified pre-owned and used vehicles.

The Ford First Time Buyer Program

If you have little or no credit history, the Ford Credit First Time Buyer program is designed to help qualified buyers finance their first vehicle. Eligibility requirements apply, such as proof of income and employment, and program terms can change. Ask our finance team whether you qualify.

Less-Than-Perfect Credit?

A past credit problem doesn't automatically rule out financing. A larger down payment, a co-signer or a more affordable vehicle can all help. The best step is to talk with our finance team about your situation.

What to Bring With You

  • Valid driver's license
  • Proof of insurance
  • Proof of income, such as recent pay stubs
  • Proof of residence, such as a utility bill
  • Your trade-in's title or loan payoff information
  • Your down payment

Financing or Leasing?

Not sure which is right for you? Read our guide to leasing vs. buying a Ford.

Talk to Our Finance Team

Visit our finance department page or call us at 234-934-1002. We're at 10301 Liberty Street in Garrettsville.
This article is for general information only. All financing is subject to credit approval. Rates, terms and program eligibility vary. See a Daystar Ford finance manager for details.
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Although every reasonable effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained on this site, absolute accuracy cannot be guaranteed. This site, and all information and materials appearing on it, are presented to the user "as is" without warranty of any kind, either express or implied. All vehicles are subject to prior sale. Price does not include applicable tax, title, and license charges. ‡Vehicles shown at different locations are not currently in our inventory (Not in Stock) but can be made available to you at our location within a reasonable date from the time of your request, not to exceed one week.