How financing works at the dealership

Published: May 6, 2012
Posted in New Ford

BellevilleIf you have been looking at Financing New Ford near Belleville you may have some questions about how the financing works.  The friendly staff at Mertz Ford is there to help you through the process and make your experience one worth coming back for.

The first step in financing your new Ford is to fill out a credit application with the dealer.  This basically means you are giving the dealer permission to see your credit report and obtain information on your credit worthiness such as other credit and employment information.  Then, you will enter into a retail installment contract directly with your Mertz Ford dealer. Mertz Ford is considered the seller/creditor and you are the buyer/debtor.  You will want to make sure you read your retail installment contract carefully and agree to all the terms of the contract.  This includes the amount you are financing, the Annual Percentage Rate (APR), the number of monthly payments you will make and the amount of those payments.  Realize, Mertz Ford will be very competitive in their rates and will do their best to find the best possible rate for your situation. This may mean they will have to find a third party creditor to finance the vehicle for you.  Most dealers sell their contracts to these third party vendors who are often able to offer the best rates. You may want to check with your bank and compare those rates as well.  Financing directly through Mertz Ford offers value and convenience.  We want to see all our customer drive happily off our lot with their Ford car of choice, and with the best financing possible.

Stop in today and talk with one of our friendly finance experts. We are here to help you.

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Ford Focus Goes Electric

Published: May 4, 2012
Posted in Ford Dealer

KirkwoodIf you paid many visit to your Hybrid Ford Dealer serving Kirkwood, you may be excited about this article. Just when it seemed like all the talk over Electric cars was dying; Ford stepped out ahead of the game and released the Ford Focus Electric Car.  The focus is one of only two electric cars currently on the market.  This new sleek and modern version of the 2012 Focus offers exactly what drivers expect out of its performance.  High speed passing, offline performance and good maneuverability are just some of the capabilities a daily driver would expect.  And the Ford Focus Electric lives up to our expectations.

The Ford Focus Electric was created with an understated design that would please the design pallet of many of todays car buyers, but really packs a punch when it comes to that dreaded gas mileage demon.

Consumers have the ability to choose the type of powertrain an all electric model, a future plug-in hybrid, and the impressive EcoBoost engines with the trade off of not having an overtly designed electric and hybrid vehicle offering.  Ford implemented a strategy of flexible powertrains across their vehicle lines and it has maximized production in the C-Car arena.  This method of production will allow Ford to save on costs for marketing the vehicle thus allowing them to continue and reach consumer demand.

The Ford Focus Electric is loaded with technology galore throughout the vehicle. There’s enough technology to keep the most tech savvy driver happy, while at the same time, not being so far advanced that non-tech types couldn’t survive. The Electrics rand of 76 miles per charge is well within the necessary range for a majority of commuters making it a great car of choice for many drivers.  For more information on this incredible vehicle, stop by Mertz Ford today.

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Considering the Cost of Credit

Published: May 3, 2012
Posted in 2012 Ford

O'FallonWhen purchasing a 2012 Ford Hybrid near O’Fallon (or any other Ford vehicle) there are a few credit factors you may want to consider. At Mertz Ford, we want to make sure all our consumers are fully informed about the cost of their car. Many factors go into the financial aspect of purchasing a vehicle. If the vehicle you are purchasing is the securing factor for your loan or retail installment contract, your cost of credit could vary based on your credit worthiness, the amount financed, the amount you put down as a down payment, whether the Ford vehicle is new or used, and the vehicle model. Your income, down payment and debt to income ratio may also affect the interest rate you obtain. When considering these factors, it’s important to note the total number of payments (term), such as 48 months or 60 months, may also affect your cost of credit.  Lower interest rates may be available for shorter repayment periods, or those with excellent credit.  Once you have the Ford of your choice selected, you will want to decide how much you want to pay each moth. Consider what monthly payment fits within your budget, based upon your income and your expected expenses.

Remember to allow for insurance, taxes, title, registration and vehicle maintenance costs when estimating the costs of ownership.

Deciding to purchase a new vehicle is not an easy decision.  Owners should take their time and consider all costs involved. At Mertz Ford, the friendly staff understands the importance of this decision and we want you to have all the information you need to make the best decision for you and your family. Stop in today and talk with one of our knowledgeable credit experts. They can help get you into a new 2012 Ford in no time.

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How To Improve Your Credit for Vehicle Financing

Published: May 2, 2012
Posted in New Ford

IllinoisIf you have been interested in New Ford Cars in Illinois, but aren’t sure what to do about your less than perfect credit, Mertz Ford has put together some steps you make want to take to help improve your credit rating. When looking for a new vehicle such as the Ford Fusion, you will want to make sure you have all your finances in order before coming to the dealer, so you don’t get any surprises. We recommend taking an active role to manage your credit score, just as you would any financial matter. Your credit score can be improved by developing long-term habits that will help in every aspect of your financial life.  The first and most important step you’ll want to take is to pay your bills on time, every time.  Credit scoring models reward prompt payments. As you pay your bills on time, you will see your credit score rise accordingly.  This will help you receive a better interest rate and will help you afford more car in the long run. Next, try not to apply for credit you don’t need. Scoring systems often view numerous loan applications or unused lines of credit as signs that you are overextended or could become overextended at any time.  If you have additional questions about ways to improve your credit rating, you can contact the credit bureaus for more ideas on ways to improve your creditworthiness. Finding the right vehicle with the right financing is a big decision that can take some time. Mertz Ford also has finance experts on hand to help walk you through the process and help you find the financing for your New Ford that is right for you and your family.

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What You Need To Know About Your Credit

Published: May 1, 2012
Posted in Ford Dealer

ILMertz Ford, your independently owned and operated Ford Dealer (IL) Financing department cares about helping you have the best possible vehicle purchase experience.  We want you to be an informed consumer to make the best choices about purchasing and financing a vehicle. We’d like to provide essential information about vehicle financing to enhance your experience at Mertz Ford.There are a few key steps you will want to take before visiting our dealership.  First, you will want to know your credit worthiness. The creditors we use generally use the same kinds of objective measures of creditworthiness. The better your credit report and score, the lower the interest rate you may obtain. You will want to obtain a current copy of your credit report and credit score.  There are many websites that can help you obtain a free copy of your report. Your credit report shows credit information about your existing and past debt, any outstanding amounts you may have, and whether or not you have paid your debts on time. Your credit score is a numerical value assigned to you based on information in your credit report.  This will determine what type of interest rate you can receive, how much of a down payment you will need, and may ultimately decide what type of vehicle you will end up with.   Obtaining a copy of your credit report will not only help you to see where you stand when it comes to credit worthiness, it will also help you to identify any errors that may be on your credit report. If you have errors on your report, you have the right to get them corrected free of charge by the credit bureau.  This is a very important step because if your credit report contains errors, you may be turned down for credit or have to pay a higher interest rate if your credit report reflects negative information such as a repossession, bankruptcy or history of slow payments. For help with your financing needs, stop in today and speak with one of our credit experts.

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Ford And The Art Of Feng Shui-Part 4

Published: April 30, 2012
Posted in 2012 Ford

ILThe following article is part of a series explaining how Ford recommends the use of the art of Feng Shui to help create balance on the interior of Ford vehicles.  If you are in the market for a 2012 Ford SUV in IL, you may be interested in reading the previous articles as well.

In a recent article from Ford, Catherine Hilker, a Feng Shui practitioner from Detroit and owner of Creating Sanctuary talks about applying the art of Feng Shui to your vehicle. “When you have a connection to something, you’ll take better care of it. Giving a name to your car is one way to encourage a strong connection to your vehicle. Using decals and vanity plates are other ways to encourage that connection.”

She suggests adding ch’i enhancers to the interior of your SUV, promoting wellbeing through your senses. While you want to makes sure the item doesn’t distract your vision, there are other senses you can cater to. Hiker recommends hanging something like small chimes in your vehicle. “Pick a calming essential oil if you’re stressed, an enlivening one for a quick pick-me-up, or an antibacterial one for a quick wipe down.”

“In feng shui, color is also very important. You’ll want to choose a color that balances out your personality.  If you are a fiery, go-getter, Type A personality, you’ll want to choose a color from water such as blues or greens or black.  This will help keep you calm. Type B individuals can choose fire and wood element colors like reds and greens to create more liveliness.  What ever your needs, Mertz Ford will have the car your looking for to help keep balance in your life.

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Ford And The Art Of Feng Shui-Part 3

Published: April 30, 2012
Posted in New Ford

MOThe following article is part of a series explaining how Ford is recommending the use of the art of Feng Shui to help create balance on the interior of certain Ford vehicles.  If you are in the market for a New Ford Crossover in MO, you may be interested in reading the previous articles as well.

In many U.S practices of feng shui, a “bagua” or map is used to show how energy called “ch’i” is flowing in our lives.  Each particular area of a persons environment relates to an area on the map.  With Ford cars such as the new Ford Edge which offers such a comfortable quiet environment, it makes sense to utilize the principals of feng shui as another means of creating a peaceful, calm and harmonious environment. The bagua or map covers 9 areas of life such as: career, fame, knowledge, creativity, helpful people, travel, finances, health, and relationships. Feng shui principals define the symbolic reflections of your life based on your environment. Catherine Hilker, a Feng Shui practitioner from Detroit and owner of Creating Sanctuary gives us a few tips on how to apply these principles:

“The No. 1 enemy in feng shui is clutter – no matter where you are. The most dramatic thing you can do to shift and change the way ch’i behaves is to get rid of the clutter, whether it’s in your home, your car, your office or workspace. Over time, clutter creates stuck energy – creating pressure, depression or tension. Clutter is stuff we don’t love, stuff we don’t use, stuff that’s broken and needs our attention. Keep your car clutter-free – that’s the best way to improve the experience of your space.”

For more information on how Ford is using the concept of Feng Shui in some of their vehicles, and how you can use the practices in your current Ford vehicles, read part 4 of this 4 part article.

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Ford And The Art Of Feng Shui-Part 2

Published: April 30, 2012
Posted in Ford Dealer

Red BudFeng Shui is commonly known as “a complex body of knowledge that reveals how to balance the energies of any given space to assure the health and good fortune for people inhabiting it.” Most wouldn’t think a Ford Dealer serving Red Bud would be interested in such a concept, but Ford recently released an article which talks about the benefit of including Feng Shui in your vehicles to help customers find balance…even behind the wheel of their car or truck.

Feng literally means wind and shui literally means water.  In Chinese culture wind and water are associated with good health and good fortune.  Feng Shui is based on the Taoist vision and understanding of nature. They believe the land we inhabit is alive and filled with Chi, or energy.  Ancient Chinese believed that the land’s energy could either make or break the kingdom. Ford realizes drivers spend more and more time behind the wheel in the midst of their hectic, modern lives. Finding balance in an environment where a great deal of your time is spent can be key to keeping calm and serenity in your day. The theories of yin and yang, as well as the five feng shui elements, are some of the basic aspects of a feng shui analysis that come from Taoism. By transferring these concepts to your vehicle, Ford believes drivers will walk away with more satisfaction.

Catherine Hilker, a Feng Shui practitioner from Detroit and owner of Creating Sanctuary states “I prefer to simply pay attention to the rooms that people spend the most amount of time in and make sure they have surrounded themselves with the kind of vibe they’re trying to create. You can do the same thing with a vehicle.”

For more information on how Ford is using the concept of Feng Shui in some of their vehicles, read part 3 of this 4 part article

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Ford and the Art of Feng Shui-Part 1

Published: April 30, 2012
Posted in 2012 Ford

Metro St. LouisIf you are in the market for a 2012 Ford Vehicle in Metro St. Louis, Mertz Ford is the place to go.  At Mertz Ford we know that Feng Shui is the art of placement to harmonize an environment.  Drivers are spending more time than ever behind the wheel. If you are like most Americans with busy schedules, stressful work situations, and an over abundance of family commitments, relaxation (whether in a home or car) is more important than ever. According to a recent Ford News article, Feng Shui can keep good energy flowing inside the cabin of a vehicle. Feng Shui is a practice the Chinese have been using for over 3,000 years. It is considered to be a way to bring harmony and organization to your environment.  This is a practice consumers have been using in their homes for years, and now we are finding more and more costumers wanting to use this concept in their vehicles as well.

The ultimate goal of Feng Shui is to create a calming atmosphere.  “I use good feng shui wherever I am – it’s just intuitive,” said Catherine Hilker, a Feng Shui practitioner from Detroit and owner of Creating Sanctuary. “Whether it’s a home, whether it’s your car – it’s always a good practice.”

Ford is committed to keeping up with the needs of its consumers. Creating a well balanced environment for drivers of Ford vehicles is an important concept that Ford believes will help its customers receive a satisfying experience while behind the wheel of their new car or truck. For more information on how Ford is using the concept of Feng Shui in some of their vehicles, read part 2 of this 4 part article.

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Ford Makes Big Changes to the 2013 Ford Escape

Published: April 27, 2012
Posted in New Ford

Metro St. LouisThe year 2013 is bringing big changes to the Ford Escape.  For over a decade, consumers have grown accustomed to the boxy, traditional SUV shape and design of the Ford Escape. And although changes have been made with hybrid technology, the previous changes are no match to what Ford has in store for the 2013 New Ford model. Kelley Blue Book named the 2012 as their number one crossover vehicle for gas mileage.  Ford believes the changes made to the engine will beat the current fuel efficiency, leaving customers happy after leaving the gas pump.

To begin describing some of the changes Ford has made, lets look at the exterior first.  With a new sleek and curvy design, there will be no mistaking this beauty for the boxy SUV types of the past.  The curves make the SUV look more like a crossover car than a traditional SUV. And the changes don’t stop on the outside.  Just one look under the hood and consumers will see a new 1.6 liter 2.0 EcoBoost engine ready to blow the hybrid types out of the water when it comes to fuel efficiency.  One look at the specs of the interior will make eco-friendly consumers happy as well. Seat cushions and head restraints are made from foam that is created from soybeans. According to the Ford website, “Carpet in all models is produced using a blend of post-industrial fibers and post-consumer fibers derived from recycled plastic bottles. Even the shape of the Escape and the use of the Active Grille Shutters help make the vehicle more aerodynamic for enhanced fuel economy.”

Whether you are looking for a new sleek design, or your concerned about the eco-friendliness of your next New Ford, the 2013 Ford Escape is not one to be overlooked.

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Mertz Ford/Mertz Motor Co Inc. • 4 East Washington • Millstadt • IL • 62260

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