It’s the end of July, which means only about a month left until school starts in the Southern Maryland area.
Parents of high school and college students are not only preparing to buy all of the clothes, shoes, and school supplies to get your kids off to a great start, but what about a new car to keep them driving safely to and from class?
Waldorf Ford is the go-to destination for back-to-school vehicles for the 2016-2017 school year. With a wide variety of Ford models, you’re sure to find your student’s new car, for a great price!
The Ford Fiesta, Ford Focus, and Ford Fusion make wonderful first cars. From the unbeatable fuel efficiency to the unmatched drivability, you’ll find a car that makes both you, and your pocket-book happy!
The Ford Fiesta is an attractive sedan, that is a treat to drive in itself. With 28 city miles and 36 mpg highway, how could you go wrong?
Slightly larger, the Ford Focus is also an awesome pick for a first-time buyer. With the newly re-designed style, 27 city miles and 40 mpg highway, you’re sure to love this car. Buyers have the option to choose between three designs, with options of including 15, 16, 17, and 18 inch wheels.
The Ford Fusion is one of America’s favorite cars. The redesigned look of the Ford Fusion makes it a sleek, clean and beautiful choice for a first car. With optional technology such as a rearview camera, satellite radio, all-wheel drive, active park assist, blind-spot monitoring, heated and cooled seats, heated steering wheel, a navigation system and the amazing lane keeping system, your student is sure to love their new car.
If you’re looking for something a little more spacious, why not try the Ford Escape? This beautiful small SUV is the solution to your problem if you’re looking for something larger but that won’t break the bank in fuel efficiency.
So, what are you waiting for? Your student’s dream car is just a click, call, or visit away!
In 2014 Ford kicked off The SwitchSales Event! This event showcases customers who switched to Ford products from compettive vehicles such as the Toyota Camry to the Ford Fusion, the GMC Sierra to the F-150, Honda Civic to the Ford Focus, and the Honda Pilot to the Ford Escape.
Watch these commercials with customers telling their stories that they are so happy that they switched to Ford!
Kevin switched from a GMC Sierra to the Ford F-150 XLT, and his buddy John approves.
Jason wanted an exciting car, so he switched from an Acura TSX to the Ford Focus ST.
Brandon comes from a Honda family, but after owning an Accord he switched to the Ford Fusion Titanium.
Also check out these photos of some of our very own customers making The Switchtoo!
Today I was pleasantly surprised to see our service lane transformed. What was once a very nice and steady service drive lane, here at your local Southern Maryland Ford Dealer, was now an active and exciting place! It was great to see both service employees and customers actively engaged in their vehicle health!
Chris conducting a Wheel Alignment
Today was the debut of the brand new wheel alignment check machine. Here is some trivia for you: Did you know that approximately 60% of vehicles are out of alignment? After hearing that percentage many customers (me included) were definitely taking advantage of this complementary service. I was asked by Hunter Engineering’s manufacturer representative if I would like a complementary vehicle inspection that only took 3 minutes! I thought awesome! Convenient and FREE? What more could I ask for? I did have some questions though. It just seemed too good to be true. Questions like: how were they able to inspect my vehicle in such a short amount of time? How did the computer work? How could it be free?
Well, Hunter Engineering Company‘s Representative was very excited about the freshly installed alignment check machine and was more than happy to explain how it worked. He also encouraged me to learn how the process worked. He first gave me a step by step demonstration on the inspection process and before I knew it; I was able to inspect the vehicle myself!
The Hunter Quick Check Inspection Process is more than just an alignment quick check system; it allows the operator to optimally test key maintenance items like batteries and tires.
Did you know that over 10% of vehicles have battery related issues? Like many of us, the battery is an afterthought but it’s so easy to test. So, the first thing we did was test battery. During the test we made sure that it was within OEM (Original equipment) specifications. Luckily mine was Green for Good; not Red for Bad!
Inspector Chris checking the Battery
Also, did you know that over 20% of vehicles have one or more tires in need of replacement? That’s right, so that’s why we checked for tire tread depth and tire pressure. What was most cool about this was that they let me check the tire tread depth and pressure on my own – it was so easy! I got to use this super cool Tread-Depth tool that allowed you one or three-point tire readings.
Tire Tread Depth Tool
Finally, we determined whether the vehicle needed a wheel alignment. Everything was in the green which was good.
All of this information was taken by a photo capture that then forwarded to the control console. Which then after calculating was able to create a special customized printout that clearly outlined all my test results!
This process was super cool and quick. Thank you to Waldorf Ford’s Service Department! The FREE Wheel alignment Quick Inspection definitely gave me piece of mind!
Stop by Waldorf Ford’s Service Department for your FREE Alignment Check!
Waldorf Ford’s Service Department is so excited to announce the FIRST EVER “Ladies Day” Event here at Waldorf Ford!
At Waldorf Ford, we celebrate woman all year long so what’s not to love about a day dedicated to exactly that. With Mother’s Day right around the corner we are cordially inviting you to celebrate and pamper yourselves, mothers, and vehicles at Waldorf Ford’s Service Department!
On Thursday, May 9th, 2013 – 8 am to 5 pm, in Waldorf Ford’s Service Department Ladies will receive a special gift, a car wash, 5-minute chair massage, coffee, snacks, and goodies with the purchase of a service! Plus Ladies will receive a $19.99 Oil Change. Look for the coupon on our website and facebook! Visit us on www.waldorfford.com, www.facebook.com/waldorfford or look for our hash tag #waldorfladiesday!
Please join us at on Thursday, May 9th, 2013 from 8 am to 5 pm at Waldorf Ford’s Service Department for our first ever “Ladies Day”! Sounds like a great day to take care of all your vehicles service needs don’t you think?
We will be at Ladies Day on May 9th! How about you?
Editor’s Note: Welcome our guest blogger Windell Rogers! He is a Sales Consultant here at Waldorf Ford & Dodge pre-owned Center, located in Waldorf, Maryland. He has been with us for since August of 2012 and has worked in the mortgage and cell phone industry as well! He is from DC. Mr. Rogers is very active in his community. From volunteering with local charities and church events and regularly mentoring in the community. If you have not met him yet I am sure you will! Mr. Rogers is visible at all of our events! He also enjoys creating and developing new ideas and re-inventing himself just like the product he sells! Windell has expansive business, retail, and product knowledge so if you have any questions just see Windell! Most importantly, he makes sure that his customers are completely satisfied and provided with a fair deal.
Windell writes:This dealership retains a particular down home friendliness. Something you just don’t find anywhere these days. Being an experienced sales person, that has also sold down south for a comparison is an easy match. Clean, solid, and Market priced vehicles makes it easy for the customer and salesperson. I always like the whole family to come in and experience the car buying process. Educate, entertain, and deliver; that’s what I do! I enjoy assisting every customer! My forte is helping people find financing! Everyone should own their dream vehicle!
Speaking of Windell’s creative and innovative spirit check out his Vine video! This was Waldorf Ford & Dodge’s pre-owned first ever vine video! https://vine.co/v/btbYdYY3v7Y
For more information on this blog or if you would like to visit Windell Rogers, visit Waldorf Ford & Dodge Pre-owned center located on route 301 N 2430 Crain Hwy Waldorf, Maryland 20601 or contact us on the phone at (800) 883-2818 or online at http://www.usedfordsdc.com/.
Editor’s Note: Welcome our guest blogger Eric M. Carter! He is a Sales Consultant here at the Waldorf Ford & Dodge Pre-Owned Center, located in Waldorf, Maryland. He has been with us for since 2002. He is originally from Washington, DC and graduated from Largo High School in Largo, Maryland. Mr. Carter stays very busy with this family. His youngest daughter is a national celebrity! If you are familiar with the 2013 Super Bowl Champions – The Baltimore Ravens and our much-loved retired linebacker Ray Lewis, you may remember this VISA credit card commercial titled “Visa NFL: Ray Lewis’s Toughest Interview Yet.” The little girl interviewing “Ray Ray” is Mr. Carter’s daughter. He shows true dedication and heart in everything he does. From being a beloved father of five children (4 girls and 1 boy) and devoted husband, to informing and supporting all of his customers throughout their buying process; Eric prides himself on providing his customers with the Best Sales Experience. Eric has been in the automotive industry for 11 years and his knowledge is expansive. Please make sure to stop by to see him for help. He enjoys exceeding all of his customer’s expectations!
They’ve got a few miles on them and they’ve been around the block a few times but for the money you’ll save, that’s no big deal!
When buying used, prices are often softer than new and that means you you’ll be able to stretch your dollar further. If you need a big car for your family, or want a lot of options like a top of the line stereo but can’t afford that option in a new car, you’ll likely be able to afford it in the used car market even among newer used cars that are less than three years old.
2nd reason: Save on insurance.
Usually, insurance costs are higher for a new car of the same model sold used. Buy used and get a lower quote – it is as simple as that!
3rd Reason: Less depreciation.
The moment you drive a new car off the lot it loses value. A car doesn’t offer the same kind of investment a home does, it will continue to lose value over time. But if you’ve purchased a used car, then you’re already paying less and your loss over time will be less.
The reason for this is that the original owner has already absorbed the largest depreciation hit, so you don’t have to. Finally, another reason there is less depreciation is that you didn’t start at the higher brand new price like in a new vehicle.
4th Reason: Reliability.
Consider the value of a used car between one and three years old. It still may run like a new car or even better since all the bugs from the manufacturer most likely have been worked out.
For example, a slightly used car has had all those little things fixed from recalls, or for air conditioner components, to a lemon of a stereo of which otherwise is a great car. Also, a slightly used car will have plenty of life and will run well for many years to come just so that it is properly maintained just like a new car.
Finally: Making the choice to buy.
So, if your still debating on whether to buy a used vehicle start with asking questions. Begin comparing prices and inquiring about the financing opportunities. But whatever you do, it is always best to buy used from a dealer verse an individual seller. Buying from a dealer is better because if you ever have any further questions you have a place to go back to!
When everything seems to be going against you, remember that the airplane takes off against the wind, not with it.
Henry Ford
Waldorf Ford wants to remind all of you, as the above quote greatly states, that to go against the grain is to define yourself. We encourage individuality both at the office and at home. It may seem a slight counter intuitive to tell you to be an individual by telling you to be like Henry Ford, but such is a false dichotomy. For the plane not only defines itself as a plane by going against the wind, but also soars. Come back for more quotes by Henry Ford and others about the Ford Motor Company.
Thursday, November 15, 2012, at Waldorf Ford starting at 5pm, global recording artist David Correy made his return to Maryland to sign autographs at Waldorf Ford. The up and coming artist took time out of his busy schedule, to support the local food bank, as did many Southern Maryland residents.
Born in Brazil and raised in Maryland, his musical talents took him all over the world. Beyond the X-factor, David has received a full scholarship Berklee College of Music in Boston, and has started his own record company, Urban Rock Records.
“From one dreamer to another” captions a picture of David Correy signing an autograph for a fan on the star’s facebook. David would end up signing a plethora of autographs, for members of the general public, and Waldorf Ford employees, as well. Below David can be seen wearing a plush heart attached to a jacket, standing next to Waldorf Ford Dealer Operations Manager, Lisa Stephens. The autograph would be displayed in her office window.
After the event, everyone, Waldorf Ford, the general public and David Correy, agreed that the event was successful. Most importantly, the large number of attendees generated funds for the local food bank. We would like to thank all that attended and hope that you will join us for future events.
We hope that you find this information helpful. If you have any questions about which fuel is recommended or required by your Ford vehicle, just give us a call at 800-883-1487. Waldorf Ford is located on Route 301 North in Waldorf MD, just 15 minutes south of Washington DC
I don’t know where you live, but here in Southern Maryland the amount of pollen in the air is unbelievable. To make things worse we haven’t had any real rain in weeks. So everything is covered in a thick yellow/green layer of pollen and dirt. It’s driving me batty! The answer…wash my car of course
If you don’t want to go to the car wash, here are some tips from the good folks over at ConsumerReports.
When should I wash the car?
Don’t… wait for a layer of crud to accumulate before washing. Dead bugs, bird droppings, and chemicals from the atmosphere all leach acids that can strip away wax and eventually eat into your car’s paint. If left too long, they can cause damage that requires sanding and repainting the area to correct.
Do… wash off dead bugs, bird droppings, and tree-sap mist as soon as possible. Other than this, a weekly car wash will keep the finish in its best shape. In addition, if you live in an area that suffers from acid rain, rinse your vehicle off after a period of rainy weather. Otherwise, acidic chemicals in the rainwater will be left on the surface after the droplets have evaporated, leaving a mark that can permanently mar the paint.
What kind of products should I use?
Don’t… use household cleaning agents like hand soap, dishwashing detergent, or glass cleaner on the paint. These aren’t formulated for use on a car’s paint and may strip off the protective wax.
Do… use a dedicated car-wash product, which is milder and specifically designed for use on automotive paint. Apply the suds with a large, soft natural sponge or a lamb’s-wool mitt. See our car wax buying advice for tips on all types of waxes.
Grease, rubber, and road-tar deposits picked up from the road often accumulate around the wheel wells and along the lower edge of the body. These can be stubborn to remove and may require a stronger product, such as a bug-and-tar remover. Use a soft, nonabrasive cloth to remove these deposits, as they can quickly blacken your sponge.
Use a separate sponge to clean the wheels and tires, which may be coated with sand, brake dust, and other debris that could mar the car’s finish. Mild soap and water may work here; if not, a dedicated wheel cleaner may be required. Be sure the cleaner is compatible with the type of finish (paint, clear-coat, chrome, etc.) used on the wheels. A strong formula intended for mag wheels, for instance, can damage the clear coat that’s used on the wheels that come on today’s cars. To be on the safe side, choose a cleaner that’s labeled as safe for use on all wheels.
Are there any general guidelines I should follow when washing a car?
Don’t… wash your car when the body is hot, such as immediately after driving it or after it has been parked in direct sunlight for awhile. Heat speeds the drying of soap and water, making washing more difficult and increasing the chances that spots or deposits will form.
Don’t move the sponge in circles. This can create light, but noticeable scratches called swirl marks. Instead, move the sponge lengthwise across the hood and other body panels. And don’t continue using a sponge that’s dropped on the ground without thoroughly rinsing it out. The sponge can pick up dirt particles that can scratch the paint.
Do… rinse all surfaces thoroughly with water before you begin washing to remove loose dirt and debris that could cause scratching. Once you begin, concentrate on one section at a time, washing and rinsing each area completely before moving on to the next one. This ensures that you have plenty of time to rinse before the soap dries. Start at the top, and then work your way around the car.
Work the car-wash solution into a lather with plenty of suds that provide lots of lubrication on the paint surface. And rinse the sponge often. Using a separate bucket to rinse the sponge keeps dirt from getting mixed into the sudsy wash water.
When rinsing, use a hose without a nozzle and let the water flow over the car from top to bottom. This creates a sheeting action that helps minimize pooling of water.
How should I dry the car when I’m done?
Don’t… let the car air dry, and don’t expect a drive around the block to do an effective job. Either will leave watermarks, which in areas with hard water are the minerals left after evaporation. In addition, don’t use an abrasive towel or other material that can leave hairline scratches in the paint.
Do… use a chamois (natural or synthetic) or soft terry towels. If you choose towels, you may need several. It’s best to blot the water up instead of dragging the towel or chamois over the paint. The drying process can be speeded up by using a soft squeegee to remove most of the water on the body, but be sure the rubber is pliable and that it doesn’t pick up bits of dirt that can cause scratches.
Well, there you have it. It’s a lot of work to keep your Ford vehicle clean, but will be well worth it when you decide to trade it in.
Stay tuned as we add more articles that hopefully you will find informative. If you have a topic you would like us to cover, feel free to email us at leads@waldorfford.com. Waldorf Ford is located on Route 301 North in Waldorf MD, just 15 minutes south of Washington DC.
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