MyVans Your Vehicle Solution
Buying a new or used car can be an overwhelming experience. When it comes to purchasing a Ford, it’s essential to know how to read the window sticker. A window sticker provides you with valuable information about the vehicle’s features, options, and price. In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of reading a Ford window sticker.
Step 1: Locate the Window Sticker
The first step in learning how to read a Ford window sticker is to locate it. The window sticker is often attached to the driver’s side of the car window. You can also find it on the windshield or the side window. If you’re buying a used car, the dealer might not have the original window sticker. In that case, you can use a VIN decoder to get the information you need.
Step 2: Understand the Information on the Window Sticker
Once you’ve located the window sticker, it’s time to understand the information it provides. The top section of the window sticker displays the manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP), the vehicle’s make and model, and the year it was manufactured.
Step 3: Decode the Standard Equipment
The next section of the window sticker displays the standard equipment that comes with the vehicle. It includes features such as air conditioning, power windows, and safety features like airbags. This section also includes the vehicle’s engine size and transmission type.
Step 4: Review the Optional Equipment
The third section of the window sticker displays the optional equipment that comes with the vehicle. This section includes features such as a navigation system, sunroof, and upgraded sound system. The price of each optional feature is also listed.
Step 5: Check the Fuel Economy
The next section of the window sticker displays the vehicle’s fuel economy. It includes the estimated miles per gallon (MPG) for city and highway driving. This information is important to consider when buying a car because it can impact your monthly fuel expenses.
Step 6: Look for Safety Ratings
The safety ratings section of the window sticker displays the vehicle’s crash test ratings. These ratings are determined by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).
Step 7: Review Warranty Information
The warranty information section of the window sticker displays the details of the vehicle’s warranty. It includes the length of the warranty and what it covers. It’s important to review this information, so you know what’s covered if something goes wrong with your vehicle.
Step 8: Check for Emissions Information
The emissions information section of the window sticker displays the vehicle’s emissions rating. It includes information about the vehicle’s carbon footprint and how it impacts the environment.
Step 9: Decode the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)
The bottom section of the window sticker displays the vehicle identification number (VIN). The VIN is a unique 17-digit code that identifies the vehicle’s make, model, and year of manufacture. You can use this number to check the vehicle’s history report, which includes information about accidents, ownership, and maintenance records.
Conclusion
Learning how to read a Ford window sticker is essential when buying a new or used car. The window sticker provides you with valuable information about the vehicle’s features, options, and price. By following the steps we’ve outlined in this article, you’ll be able to decode the information on the window sticker and make an informed decision about your purchase.
