So you’ve found the car of your dreams: shiny, sleek, and just calling your name from across the lot. You’re ready to seal the deal… but the dealer hits you with that question:
“How much are you putting down today?”
And suddenly, your brain hits the brakes.
Let’s break it down: bringing cash to the table when you’re buying a car isn’t just a good idea — it’s a strategic flex. Here’s why it matters (and how it can save you thousands).
🔑 1. Lowers Your Monthly Payment
The more money you put down upfront, the less you have to borrow. That means your monthly payments shrink — sometimes dramatically.
Example:
- No down payment: $28,000 loan = $525/month
- $5,000 down: $23,000 loan = $432/month
That’s nearly $100 saved every month, or over $1,000 a year. Just by showing up with some cash.
📉 2. Reduces Your Interest Paid Over Time
Interest is like rent you pay on money you borrowed. The less you borrow, the less you pay in interest — plain and simple.
Even if the rate stays the same, your total cost can drop significantly with a down payment. Want to beat the bank at their own game? Put money down.
🚫 3. Helps Avoid Being “Upside Down”
Being upside down means you owe more on your car than it’s worth. It happens fast — cars depreciate the moment you drive them off the lot.
But if you put down a solid chunk upfront, you immediately shrink that risk. That way, if life throws a curveball and you need to sell or trade in the car sooner than expected, you’re not stuck with a financial anchor.
✅ 4. Increases Your Loan Approval Odds
Lenders love when you put skin in the game. A down payment shows:
- You’re financially responsible
- You’re serious about the purchase
- You pose less of a risk
Even if your credit score isn’t perfect, a healthy down payment can give you negotiating power and open doors to better loan terms.
🧠 5. Gives You More Power During Negotiations
Picture this: you’re sitting at the dealership, and the salesperson is working the numbers. You casually drop,
“I’ve got $4,000 ready for the down payment.”
Suddenly, the energy shifts. You’re not just another lookie-loo. You’re someone who came prepared — and that can make a big difference when it’s time to talk pricing or extras.
💡 Bonus Tip: How Much Should You Put Down?
👉 Used Car? Aim for at least 10% of the total price
👉 New Car? Shoot for 15% to 20% if possible
👉 Can’t swing that much? Even $1,000 to $2,000 can make a difference
Anything is better than $0 — and your future self (and wallet) will thank you.
🎯 Final Thoughts
A down payment isn’t just a boring financial detail — it’s a way to protect your investment, lower your long-term costs, and keep your budget in check. Whether it’s $1,000 or $10,000, showing up with cash means you’re buying on your terms.
So before you say “yes” to that shiny ride, ask yourself:
How much power do I want in this deal?
Because a down payment doesn’t just buy you a car — it buys you leverage.
Don’t Overpay for What You Don’t Need. Shop Smarter, Not Harder.
When it comes to buying a car, it’s easy to get lost in the maze of features, trim levels, and upgrades that sound oh-so-tempting but come with a price tag. It’s all too easy to get swept up by the flashy extras, but if you use the 80/20 Rule, you can keep your car purchase focused, cost-effective, and, most importantly, aligned with your real needs.
What’s the 80/20 Rule in car shopping?
In simple terms: 20% of the features you want will provide 80% of the value you’ll actually use.
So, let’s focus on the essentials that truly matter—without getting sucked into unnecessary upgrades and add-ons.
🔥 1. Prioritize Your Must-Haves: Focus on What Matters Most
It’s tempting to dream about a car that has every bell and whistle imaginable. Leather seats! A panoramic sunroof! A 12-speaker sound system! But do you really need all of that? Let’s break it down.
Start with a List of Must-Haves:
- Fuel efficiency: Especially important if you have a long commute or plan to road-trip often.
- Safety features: Standard nowadays, but things like automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warnings, and adaptive cruise control make a big difference.
- Technology: Bluetooth connectivity, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto have become must-haves for many buyers. But maybe the head-up display isn’t as crucial.
💡 Pro Tip:
Think about your daily routine. Will you use heated seats every day? If you live in a warm climate, they might not be worth the extra cost. Similarly, if you only drive short distances, a premium sound system might be overkill. Focus on features that’ll actually improve your driving experience!
💡 2. Set Your Non-Negotiables Before You Arrive: Know What You Need, Not What You Want
Before stepping into the dealership, take a moment to get crystal-clear on your non-negotiables. These are the features that you absolutely cannot live without.
What Are Your Must-Haves?
- Is it all-wheel drive because of snowy roads?
- Do you need a third row of seats for your growing family?
- Is reliability a key factor because you’re driving long distances for work?
The Secret to Avoiding the “Upsell” Trap
Dealers know how to push extra features on you. You’ll hear things like, “Well, for just a few more thousand, you can get the premium package, which includes heated seats, a power tailgate, and a sport package!”
If you didn’t need these things before entering the dealership, don’t let them cloud your judgment. Stick to your non-negotiables.
💡 Pro Tip: Write down a list of your “must-haves” and review it before heading to the dealership. That way, you won’t be swayed by features that look shiny but don’t serve your actual needs.
📊 3. Compare Trim Levels Instead of Add-Ons: Get More Bang for Your Buck
Here’s the thing: adding a bunch of individual options can quickly inflate the price of a car. You might end up spending $5,000 just to get a couple of extra features. But what if there’s a trim level that includes all those features in a bundled package—for a better deal?
The Trim Level Strategy
Most cars come in several trims, each offering a different combination of features. For example:
- Toyota Camry L (base model): Basic, but functional.
- Toyota Camry XLE (higher trim): Includes features like leather seats, a power driver’s seat, and a larger touchscreen, plus more advanced tech options.
In many cases, opting for a higher trim might actually be cheaper than selecting individual upgrades. The package deal can give you more value for your money.
Here’s How to Compare Trims:
- List your must-haves and check which trim level includes them.
- Don’t forget about resale value—higher trims often hold their value better than base models.
- Ask the dealer if it’s possible to get certain features included in a higher trim.
💡 Pro Tip: If you’re eyeing a higher trim, make sure it’s not just an upgraded version of the features you already want. Sometimes, paying more for a trim with features you don’t need isn’t the best investment.
🎯 Wrap-Up: Shop Smart with the 80/20 Rule
Here’s your game plan for shopping smarter:
- Focus on what you’ll actually use—Not every feature is a must-have. Prioritize wisely.
- Set your non-negotiables before heading to the dealership so you don’t get upsold on things you don’t need.
- Compare trim levels to avoid costly add-ons and get more value for your money.
By applying the 80/20 Rule, you’ll have more clarity in your car buying process. It’s not about getting everything you want—it’s about getting the best value for your dollar, and a car that fits your lifestyle.
At the end of the day, it’s not about the flashy features or the price tag, but about making sure your new ride fits your needs, your budget, and your long-term happiness.
Because You Can’t Find The One if You Don’t Know What You’re Looking For!
So, you’re ready to start car shopping. Exciting, right?
But before you rush to the dealership and get seduced by that flashy red coupe you didn’t know existed (and definitely didn’t need), let’s slow down and talk about the most underrated part of the process:
The Search Stage.
That magical (and sometimes overwhelming) phase where you figure out what car fits your life — not just your vibe.
Here’s how to crush it, step by step:
🔍 Step 1: Pick the Vehicle Type That Matches Your Lifestyle
Don’t just think about what looks cool — think about what actually works for your everyday life.
- 🚘 Sedan – Great for commuting, city driving, and fuel economy champs.
- 🚙 SUV/Crossover – Need room for kids, pets, or gear? This is your sweet spot.
- 🚐 Minivan – Don’t knock it ‘til you try it. Ultimate space, comfort, and convenience.
- 🛻 Truck – Got things to tow or haul? Or just want to feel like a boss on the road?
- 🏎️ Coupe or Convertible – Weekend cruiser? Low passenger needs? Flex mode activated.
📝 Ask Yourself:
- How many people do I need to carry regularly?
- Do I need cargo space for sports gear, strollers, or DIY projects?
- Will I be driving in snow, rain, or rough roads?
✅ Pro Tip: Be honest about your daily habits, not your dream life. If you rarely go off-road, skip the giant 4×4 unless you truly love it.
🎨 Step 2: What Color Speaks to You?
Yes, it’s okay to care about color — cars are emotional purchases, after all!
- Black/Silver/White = Classic and easier to sell later.
- Red/Blue/Bright Colors = Fun, bold, and stands out in a parking lot.
- Beige/Gray/Bronze = Practical, hides dirt, and doesn’t scream “look at me.”
🚿 Low-Maintenance Hack: Love your car but hate washing it every week? Look for colors that hide dust and road grime like silver or gray.
✅ Pro Tip: Color can impact resale value and insurance rates — flashy cars sometimes come with flashy premiums.
🧰 Step 3: Must-Haves vs. Nice-to-Haves (Don’t Get Caught Slippin’)
This is where temptation gets real. The dealership is filled with bells, whistles, and “oh wow that’s cool” features.
But not everything that glitters is a deal-maker.
✅ Must-Haves:
- ✅ Bluetooth or CarPlay for safe driving
- ✅ Backup camera (now standard in many models)
- ✅ Good safety ratings
- ✅ Fuel efficiency that matches your commute
- ✅ Enough space for passengers, pets, or gear
🤔 Nice-to-Haves:
- 🌞 Sunroof or moonroof
- 🧼 Heated/ventilated seats
- 🎵 Premium sound system
- 🛞 Fancy rims or sport packages
- 🧠 Auto-park or lane assist features
📝 Make 2 lists:
- “I will not buy a car without…”
- “Cool, but not essential.”
✅ Pro Tip: Knowing what’s a “must” vs. a “meh” will keep you from being upsold into an $8,000 trim level just for some heated cupholders.
🧭 Final Thoughts: Search With Purpose
The Search Stage isn’t just browsing — it’s laying the foundation for a smart, stress-free car buying experience.
When you know what you need, what you want, and what you can live without, you hold the power.
You won’t get distracted.
You won’t get pushed into the wrong car.
And you definitely won’t leave wondering, “Did I just buy a car because it came with free floor mats?”
So before you even think about stepping into that dealership, start here. Define your needs. Get specific. Own your preferences.
Because a focused buyer is a fearless buyer. 💪
🚘 Ready to move to the next phase?
Avoid the Chaos and Shop Like a Pro
So, you’ve made it to the dealership.
The cars are shiny. The lot is huge. The sales team is ready.
But you? You’re not just any walk-in browser — you’re here on a mission.
Right?
Well… hopefully. Because walking into a dealership without a plan is like entering IKEA without the arrows on the floor: disorienting, exhausting, and you might come out with something you didn’t want.
Let’s fix that.
Here are the 2 most important things you need to do before stepping onto that lot — plus a step-by-step breakdown to keep you focused and in control.
✅ 1️⃣ Have a Plan of Action — Before You Arrive 🎯
You wouldn’t go into a job interview without preparation… so don’t go into car shopping without a plan.
🔍 Step-by-Step: Building Your Game Plan
✅ Step 1: Know What You Want (and WHY)
- Are you commuting daily?
- Do you need space for kids or dogs or weekend camping?
- Is fuel efficiency or tech your top priority?
➡️ Having clarity on your needs helps narrow down the right vehicles — and keeps you from being dazzled by something shiny but impractical.
✅ Step 2: Set a Realistic Budget
- How much can you afford monthly (comfortably)?
- What’s your total price cap — including taxes, fees, and insurance?
- Are you putting money down?
➡️ Pro tip: Don’t just think about the monthly payment. Know the full cost of the vehicle over time, especially if you’re financing.
✅ Step 3: Get Pre-Approved for Financing
- Talk to your bank or credit union before the dealership.
- Compare interest rates.
- Understand the loan terms you qualify for.
➡️ Walking in with a pre-approval gives you leverage and protects you from high dealership markups.
✅ Step 4: Research the Car’s Market Value
- Use tools like Kelley Blue Book, Edmunds, or TrueCar.
- Know what a fair price looks like for the vehicle you’re eyeing.
➡️ This knowledge helps you negotiate with confidence and avoid overpaying.
✅ 2️⃣ Make Sure the Plan Works for YOU 🏆
Now that you have a plan — stick to it.
Because dealership floors are filled with tempting distractions and persuasive salespeople. It’s their job to sell. It’s your job to stay in control.
🛡️ Step-by-Step: Sticking to Your Strategy
✅ Step 1: Don’t Let Them “Upgrade” You
- Salesperson: “For just $40 more a month, you could get the next model up!”
- You (internally): “That sounds small… but that’s over $2,800 more over the loan term!”
➡️ Stick to the car you researched — unless YOU decide it’s worth adjusting for.
✅ Step 2: Don’t Reveal Your Max Budget Early
- If they know your top dollar, guess where the price will land? 👀
➡️ Let the numbers do the talking. Focus on the vehicle price, not what you “can afford monthly.”
✅ Step 3: Don’t Get Pressured into On-the-Spot Decisions
- “This deal is only good for today!”
- Translation: “We want you to buy before you go home and think.”
➡️ If you feel rushed, walk away. A good deal will still be there tomorrow.
✅ Step 4: Bring a Friend or Checklist
- Two brains are better than one.
- A checklist helps you keep track of what you want, what they offer, and what feels off.
➡️ Don’t go solo unless you’re a seasoned buyer — moral support helps more than you think!
🏁 The Bottom Line: Walk In Like a Boss
Walking into a dealership can be intimidating — unless you come in prepared, focused, and unshakable.
✔ Know what you want
✔ Know what you can afford
✔ Get your own financing
✔ And most importantly… don’t let the pressure change your plan.
Because buying a car is a big decision.
Don’t just wander into it. Stride in like you own the place.
Here’s a Printable Car Dealership Prep Checklist based on the blog, click here.
Imagine showing up for a job interview and realizing you’ve had spinach in your teeth since breakfast.
Now imagine applying for a car loan… and your credit report has errors that make you look way riskier than you are. 👀
Your credit report is like your financial résumé — and when you’re car shopping, lenders read it before deciding if they’ll lend to you and at what cost. So yeah, it’s kind of a big deal.
Don’t worry. Reading your credit report isn’t as scary as it sounds. Grab a coffee (or a stress ball), and let’s walk through it step by step.
🚗💳 Why It Matters
Your credit report affects:
- ✅ Whether your loan is approved
- 💰 The interest rate you’re offered
- 🏦 How much the bank is willing to lend you
- 😬 How much extra you might pay over time
One wrong address, one incorrectly reported missed payment, and BOOM — your rates shoot up faster than gas prices on a holiday weekend.
📄 Where to Get Your Free Credit Report
Before we start reading, grab your report. You can get a free copy (once per year from each bureau) at:
- AnnualCreditReport.com – The official site.
- Or use apps like Credit Karma or Credit Sesame for simplified overviews.
📝 Step-by-Step: How to Read Your Credit Report
📌 Step 1: Check Your Personal Info
This might seem boring, but it’s so important.
✅ Confirm:
- Your full name (including middle initial if used)
- Current and past addresses
- Date of birth
- Employer details
🚨 Why it matters: If someone else’s info accidentally gets mixed with yours, you could end up with their debt on your record. Identity mix-ups are more common than you’d think.
📌 Step 2: Verify Your Social Security Number
Your SSN might show partially, like *–-1234. Still, make sure those last digits are correct.
🚨 If your SSN is wrong, it could signal identity theft — or just a sloppy error. Either way, it needs to be fixed ASAP.
📌 Step 3: Scan for Negative Marks
This is where things get real. Look for:
- ❌ Late payments (30, 60, 90+ days late)
- ❌ Accounts in collections
- ❌ Charged-off accounts (aka lenders gave up on collecting)
- ❌ Public records (bankruptcies, liens, judgments)
🚨 These can tank your credit score and stay on your report for up to 7 years (or more). But if any of these are incorrect? Dispute them immediately.
📌 Step 4: Review Your Open Accounts
Look at each credit card, loan, and line of credit you’ve opened.
Check:
- Are the balances correct?
- Are payments marked “on time”?
- Is the account status accurate (open/closed)?
✅ Look for accounts you don’t recognize — that could be a red flag.
📌 Step 5: Double-Check Closed Accounts
Even closed accounts stay on your report for a while — especially if they were negative.
Make sure:
- They’re listed as “closed” (and not mistakenly active)
- Payment history is accurate
- The date closed is correct
🔍 Mistakes here can misrepresent your financial habits — and that’s a no-go.
📌 Step 6: Look at Hard Inquiries
These are the checks lenders make when you apply for credit (like car loans or credit cards).
✅ You should recognize them. If you don’t? Someone else might be applying for credit in your name (Yikes!).
Note: Hard inquiries stay on your report for two years but only affect your score for one.
📌 Step 7: Spot Identity Theft Red Flags
Be on alert for:
- Accounts you never opened
- Addresses you’ve never lived at
- Employers you’ve never worked for
- Weird credit card companies you’ve never heard of
If anything smells fishy, freeze your credit and file a fraud alert right away.
🧼 Bonus: How to Fix Errors
If you find a mistake (and many people do), don’t panic.
You can dispute it directly with the credit bureau:
- Equifax: equifax.com
- Experian: experian.com
- TransUnion: transunion.com
They have 30 days to investigate — and they’re legally required to respond.
✨ Final Thoughts: Know Before You Go
Reading your credit report might feel like financial homework, but it’s one of the smartest things you can do before you buy a car.
The more accurate your report, the more power you have.
Because when your credit speaks the truth, lenders listen differently.
So give it a read. Fix what’s broken. Then head to the dealership like a boss who knows their numbers.
Buying a used car shouldn’t feel like navigating a maze while blindfolded. But for a lot of first-time buyers, it can feel exactly like that — especially with shiny paint jobs, tempting tech features, and sales pitches flying at you from every direction.
Want to avoid buyer’s remorse and drive away feeling like a total pro? Here are three game-changing strategies to help you lock in the right used car at the right price.
🚗 1. Define Your Priorities Upfront — And Don’t Waver
Before you even look at a listing, ask yourself:
What do I actually need in a car? Not want — need.
- Daily commuter? Go for fuel efficiency.
- Road tripper? Hello, cargo space.
- Always getting lost? Tech features like GPS or Apple CarPlay might be your best friend.
Make a list of your top 3–5 must-haves and stick to them like glue. This will help you filter through the noise, avoid emotional overspending (“But it has red stitching!”), and keep you focused on cars that fit your real lifestyle — not just your Pinterest board.
📊 2. Use Trusted Reviews & Rankings (Skip the Guesswork)
Don’t just rely on the dealership’s opinion of a car — they’re trying to sell it, remember?
Instead, dig into trusted expert sources (like ours 👀) that break down:
- Real-world performance (Is it actually fun to drive, or just hyped?)
- Reliability and maintenance costs (No one wants a “budget” car that turns into a repair shop regular)
- Resale value (So you’re not left crying in 3 years)
Reviews and rankings can reveal hidden gems you might’ve missed and expose common problem cars you’ll want to steer far, far away from.
💰 3. Get Pre-Approved and Set a Firm Budget (Like, Tattoo It On Your Soul)
Financing might not be the most exciting part of car shopping — but it’s one of the smartest.
Before you even set foot on a lot:
- Get pre-approved for a loan through your bank or credit union
- Know your budget — and your absolute limit
- Include extra costs like taxes, title, registration, and insurance
Why this matters:
- Salespeople take you more seriously when you’ve got financing locked down
- You won’t get tempted into a car you “can’t afford but really want”
- You’re in control — not the financing desk
When your budget is firm, you’re buying with logic, not impulse. That’s how real deals are made.
🎯 Final Thought: It’s Not About the Flashiest Deal — It’s About the Smartest One
The best used car deals aren’t just about low prices. They’re about long-term value, reliability, and making sure the car works for you — not the other way around.
So take a deep breath, do the research, and stick to these three strategies. Your future self (and your wallet) will thank you every time you turn the key.
Ah, the fantasy. You, behind the wheel of a cherry red sports car with racing stripes, music blasting, the city lights reflecting off your freshly waxed hood as heads turn and jaws drop.
But before you sign on the dotted line and speed into debt like it’s the Fast & Furious franchise, let’s have a quick reality check—because what you want and what you need might be two very different vehicles.
Welcome to Step One of smart car buying: knowing what actually fits your life, not just your dreams.
🧠 Know What You Need — Not Just What You Want
A car isn’t just a style statement—it’s your daily companion, your commute buddy, your road trip ride-or-die. So instead of getting caught up in horsepower and heated seats, ask yourself:
🚦 How Many Miles Do I Drive Weekly?
This is huge. If you’re commuting long distances, you’ll want:
- Great gas mileage
- A comfortable, quiet ride
- Something that won’t rack up repair costs after 40,000 miles
If you’re mostly zipping around town? A smaller, fuel-efficient car might be the better move. Don’t get a gas-guzzler just to look cool in traffic.
👨👩👧👦 Do I Need Space for Passengers, Gear, or Pets?
You might love the look of a two-door coupe… until it’s your turn for carpool duty or your dog refuses to climb into the backseat like an acrobat.
Think about:
- Road trips
- Grocery hauls
- Weekend adventures
- Emergency Ubering your friends when their car breaks down (because yes, you will be that friend eventually)
🌧️ What Kind of Weather Am I Driving In?
Rain? Snow? Potholes big enough to swallow a tire whole?
Your dream convertible won’t feel so dreamy when you’re fishtailing through a snowstorm. All-wheel drive, higher clearance, and reliable braking systems suddenly become a lot more attractive when your climate is doing the most.
💰 What Can I Really Afford to Spend (All-In)?
Don’t just look at the monthly payment. Zoom out and factor in:
- Insurance (which will laugh in your face if you buy that sports car at 22)
- Maintenance and repairs
- Gas
- Registration, taxes, and fees
Set a budget based on your full financial picture—not just what you think you can swing each month. Your future self will thank you.
🎯 Bottom Line: Be Real with Yourself
Sure, you deserve to love your car. But you also deserve peace of mind, lower bills, and a vehicle that doesn’t betray you every other month with mystery dashboard lights.
Think of it this way: choosing the right car isn’t about giving up the dream—it’s about choosing the right dream for your real life. A car that serves your needs now, grows with you, and gives you the freedom to chase whatever’s next.
So go ahead—daydream about that sports car. But when it comes time to buy?
Choose the hatchback with heated seats and killer MPG. It may not turn every head on the road… but it’ll keep you on the road without breaking the bank.
Want help creating a downloadable checklist for your car needs vs. wants?
Ford just dropped eight recalls in one day, affecting tens of thousands of vehicles going back to 2020. If that sounds like a lot, it is. What’s even more concerning? Most of these recalls are fixes for problems that were supposed to be fixed in previous recalls.
The good news? No stop-use notices were issued, so these aren’t major safety threats. But if your Ford or Lincoln is on the list, it’s worth scheduling a visit to your dealer to get things checked out. Let’s break down the biggest issues.
Maverick Pickup: Multiple Recalls for the Same Issues
The Ford Maverick was hit hard, with five separate recalls, most of which involve repeating past fixes that weren’t done correctly.
- Instrument Cluster Issues (933 trucks, Aug 2021 – Oct 2023): Some trucks that previously got a recall fix didn’t receive the right software update, leaving the instrument cluster failing to display safety information.
- Brake Light Malfunction (141 trucks, Aug 2021 – Oct 2022): Brake lights may turn on without the driver pressing the brake pedal—a problem Ford was supposed to fix already but didn’t.
- Powertrain Control Module Update (2 trucks, Mar – Apr 2022): These trucks may not recognize a draining battery, failing to activate the alternator, which could lead to a dead battery while driving.
EV Recalls: Mustang Mach-E & F-150 Lightning Affected
Ford’s electric lineup isn’t immune from recall troubles:
- Mustang Mach-E (243 vehicles): High-voltage battery connectors weren’t properly fixed in a past recall, leading to overheating risks.
- F-150 Lightning (950 trucks, 2022-2024): Some battery cells may have a manufacturing defect, potentially causing a short. Ford advises owners to limit charging to 80% until the issue is resolved. If your truck is affected, Ford will replace the high-voltage battery for free.
Ecosport Crossover: Rollaway Risk
The biggest recall affects the Ecosport, covering models built between April 2021 and July 2022.
- Issue: Front axle shafts may be improperly installed, causing the car to roll away even when in park.
- Fix: Ford will inspect and replace halfshafts if necessary.
Hybrid Powertrain Issues: Maverick, Escape, Corsair
- 207 vehicles (across the Maverick Hybrid, Escape Hybrid, and Lincoln Corsair Hybrid) may shift into neutral unexpectedly due to a faulty Hybrid Powertrain Control Module update from a previous recall.
Trailer Brake Issue: Over 10,000 Trucks & SUVs Affected
- A faulty trailer brake controller module could prevent towed trailers from braking when the vehicle does.
- Affects over 10,000 Ford and Lincoln light trucks/SUVs from 2021 and 2022.
- Fix: Ford will provide a free software update.
Final Thoughts: Ford, Please Get It Right the First Time
If Ford had properly fixed these issues in past recalls, this list would be three recalls instead of eight. Instead, thousands of owners now have to make a second (or even third) trip to the dealer.
If you own a Ford or Lincoln, check your VIN against the recall list and get your vehicle inspected. Hopefully, this time, Ford gets the fixes right.
The 2026 Genesis GV70 is getting a sleek refresh with new design elements and upgraded interior features. However, prices have increased by up to $3,235, depending on the trim.
Performance and Pricing Updates
🚗 2.5T Turbo-Four (300 HP, AWD)
- Base Model: Now starts at $49,345 (+$1,695 from last year)
- 2.5T Select: $52,335 (+$1,685) – Adds power adjustments, panoramic sunroof, and wireless charging
- 2.5T Sport Advanced: $56,885 (+$3,235) – Leather upholstery, heated steering wheel, ventilated front seats, Bang & Olufsen sound system
- 2.5T Sport Prestige: $60,245 (+$685) – 21-inch wheels, sportier design, extra leather trim, third climate zone
🚀 3.5T Twin-Turbo V-6 (375 HP, AWD)
- Sport Advanced: $64,865 (+$4,615) – Previously, the V-6 was available for $60,250, but the trim now offers a lower price than before (-$1,785)
- Sport Prestige: $71,545 (+$1,695) – Top-tier luxury and performance package
Key Upgrades for 2026
✅ New 27-inch OLED display across the dashboard
✅ Microlens-array headlights for a sharper look
✅ Improved interior finishes for a more premium feel
Electrified GV70 Updates (Pricing TBD)
The EV version gets:
⚡ Larger 84.0-kWh battery for extended range
⚡ New standard NACS charge port for easier charging
Genesis hasn’t announced the Electrified GV70’s price yet, but it’s expected to start around $67,000 when it launches after the gas-powered models debut this spring.
US stocks surged on Wednesday after President Trump announced a one-month exemption on auto tariffs for Mexico and Canada.
After a shaky start, the Nasdaq Composite (^IXIC) led the gains, climbing 1.4%. The Dow Jones Industrial Average (^DJI) and S&P 500 (^GSPC) also rose about 1.1%.
Auto Stocks Surge on Tariff Delay
The market rally followed news that the White House postponed auto tariffs that could have severely impacted US automakers Ford (F), GM (GM), and Stellantis (STLA). Shares of all three jumped more than 5%.
This decision came just a day after Trump imposed 25% tariffs on Mexico and Canada, sparking investor concerns. However, Tuesday’s hints from the administration about possible tariff relief helped ease tensions.
Recent Market Woes & Economic Concerns
In recent days, stocks had been under pressure as investors worried about the economic fallout from Trump’s escalating trade war. On Tuesday, the S&P 500 hit its lowest level in four months, wiping out all of its post-election gains.
Adding to concerns, a weak jobs report on Wednesday signaled potential trouble in the labor market. ADP data showed that private-sector companies added just 77,000 jobs in February—a sharp drop from January and far below economists’ expectations. This sets the stage for Friday’s crucial nonfarm payroll report, which will give a clearer picture of the job market.
