Five Features You’ll Want to Look for in Used Fords

Are you looking for a used Ford? While you may be buying used, that doesn’t mean you have to skimp on comfort, convenience, or luxury features. In fact, buying used will likely get you a higher trim level than you would be interested in buying new. With more possibilities, you’ll get to choose which features are most important to you. As your Saratoga, NY, used Ford dealer, we will help you determine which features are available and which trims we have available on our lot.

Interested in a premium sound system, or does the idea of a larger touchscreen sound more appealing? Looking for a model with heated and ventilated seats, or would you prefer to have your vehicle equipped with a few extra safety features? Whichever features are most important to you, there may be other features you might not have considered, which is why we’ve listed some of the best features you’ll find on used Fords.

#1: Ford F-150’s 14 Power Outlets

If you’re looking for a pickup with multiple power options, the Ford F-150 Platinum trim level is the gold standard. Not only does the 2021 Platinum come equipped with the usual 120v outlet pair, but it also has a 12v socket, six USB ports inside the cabin, and four 20 amp 120v outlets as well as a 240v outlet, all of which combine to create a powerhouse pickup that can provide energy for multiple tools or even power on a generator.

If properly equipped, the F-150 Platinum can act as a generator for over 60 hours. This would be an excellent feature for those who own and operate a small business, or those interested in camping, hunting, and other outdoor activities, though, of course, there are more ways to utilize this feature. You can give each passenger access to their own USB port, allowing all laptops, tablets, and phones in the vehicle to be charged whenever they start running low. You can also use the outlets in the truck bed for power tools, paint guns, or other hand-held equipment. However you decide to use the F-150 Platinum’s 14 power outlets, you’ll always have plenty of options.

#2: SYNC Software

Many Ford vehicles, used and new, have Ford’s proprietary entertainment, diagnostic, and safety software installed, along with a touchscreen. If you’re getting a newer used vehicle, like a 2021 Ford, SYNC 4 will be installed. Ford’s SYNC 4 system governs everything from phone calls to navigation to entertainment. Not only can your SYNC 4 give you directions and entertain you with podcasts, audiobooks, and news radio, it can also be an AI that reminds you to call your mom or invite friends over for dinner and ask if you want to drive to one of your favorite locations. This AI component is incredibly helpful for those who are indecisive, forgetful, or just need a quick reminder now and again.

When you need alone time, or you’re upset, or you’re just going on a drive to while away time, the SYNC 4 system is an extra set of eyes as well as a helpful assistant. It can remember your favorite stores and restaurants, or keep navigation routes to your frequent haunts. Ford’s SYNC 4 is meant to pair with your phone so that you don’t have to look at it while you drive. With Ford’s SYNC 4, life gets a little less complicated. Isn’t that what we all want?

#3: Premium Steering Wheel Experience

These features aren’t exclusive to any one model, but they are listed as “optional” for some trim levels. If you’ve ever had to run errands, drive to the airport for a pickup, or just wanted to grab some fast food for dinner in any sort of cold weather, you know how unpleasant it can be to have cold hands. Gloves sometimes work to keep the worst of the cold off you, but realistically speaking, it doesn’t do much if you’re taking them on and off for various situations.

Enter Ford’s solution: heated leather-covered steering wheels. That’s right––not only will you have a smooth, sleek steering wheel feel, but it’ll also be heated, which means your hands won’t get cold enough to warrant gloves. Instead, you’ll be treated to a luxury experience every time you get back in the vehicle, and you’ll feel pampered and ready to go on the next errand.

Though you may not think it makes much of a difference, your hands will feel the difference. The steering wheel keeps them warm, yes, but it also helps with pain from the likes of arthritis, carpal tunnel, and other wrist strains. This is very similar to the joke bandied about on the internet where people acknowledge that in middle age, the heated seat becomes less a way of keeping warm and more a way to ease symptoms of back pain. Again, you’ll be surprised by how much of a difference this one little luxury makes.

#4: Entry/Exit Illumination

We’ve all been there––getting in or out of a vehicle and slipping, tripping, or sliding on something you didn’t see. However, some used Ford vehicles, like the returning hero, the Bronco, offer a practical yet luxurious feature: illumination for the entry/exit doors, as well as an illuminated panic button and an illuminated ignition switch. You won’t have to fumble around for your keys anymore and can instead enjoy the before, during, and after of a family field trip.

A multitude of lighting features allows you to see clearly, whether you’re looking for your keys, some change for the parking meter, or avoiding the oil spill in the parking lot. It provides a safe way of seeing even more than usual in or outside of vehicles without being glaring or highly noticeable. You never know when you’re going to need more light, so it’s always a good idea to look for this feature if you can.

It’s more popular on newer models, so if you can find a 2021 or 2022 used Ford Bronco, you’re all set. This also helps when loading and unloading, as well as offering pets and small children a way to see where they’re going as they get in and out of the car. This is one feature that’s quite popular, so it doesn’t seem to be going anywhere anytime soon, so if you see a Ford vehicle that has it, check it out and maybe snap it up before someone else does.

#5: Garage Door Opener

Modern conveniences can’t be beat, and with Ford’s garage door opener, that’s exactly what you’ll get. Convenience for loading and unloading groceries, sports equipment, suitcases, and more without having to worry about getting the garage door open in inclement weather. You’ll be safe and sound (and dry!) with this easy one-button convenience feature.

This convenience feature is easy to find even on models from 2014, like the Ford SUVs, so if you’ve got a garage in which you plan to protect your vehicle and make it easier for everyone to take things inside, this is a must-have. This is also a great feature for those with disabilities and the elderly since they won’t have to worry about hand-lifting the garage door or even using a tool to get it open.

There’s a Ford in Your Future

Excited about these and other features a used Ford might have to offer you? We understand! There are so many great features available in a wide range of Ford models that it is impossible to list them all. Used Fords have all the great features, plus they’re less expensive. If you’ve ever wanted to buy a Ford but are worried about it having fewer features, there is no need––you’ll be able to afford a higher trim level buying used, which will allow you to get all the features you need and want, whether they’re safety, convenience, luxury, or entertainment features. You’ll find the best features when looking at a Ford. Buying a used Ford can be an exciting experience, so take a look at what Ford model you want, note the specific trim that has the features you want, then get out there and find your dream Ford vehicle!