Buying a Ford Mustang

Looking to buy a new or used Ford Mustang?

If you like affordable looks and power, Ford Mustang is definitely the car for you. Before you buy a Ford Mustang, you should know that there are many models out there equal in power to suit whatever needs you may incur. Looking at buying your Ford Mustang, first approach the seller and retrieve all the information needed to identify the vehicle. After identification of the vehicle and you're still interested, the Mustang for a spin. After the test run, leave without discussing a purchse, even if you love your car. Shop around, get a choice for yourself to choose from before purchasing your Mustang.

Before approaching any sellers about a Mustang, you should know a little about the history of the Ford Mustang. Knowing the history of the car and the models and engine options for years, get ready for the first step in purchasing your Mustang. Similarly, the history of the Mustang also make you a die-hard fan, and is a die-hard you will notice every imperfection-a skill that is useful when purchasing a used late model car.

Your needs

Maybe you just need a reliable daily driver and a Ford Mustang V6 could be your best option. If you want a nicer car with a V8, more power, aggression and control, a GT Mustang model may suit your needs. If you want a sunny day car with plenty of stock power, a Cobra Mustang may suit you best. So before you start looking at different cars, decide what your practical uses will be and who will immediately narrow your search down to your Ford Mustang.

Also, what is your price range? Check NADA and Kelley Blue Book to see what they can expect price-wise for a specific year and model Ford Mustang. After finding out what's in your budget, shop away!

Identify Vehicle

Identify and validate the model of car. Is the car the same car that came with the engine, transmission, interior and exterior options, as the car is listed on the VIN (Vehicle Identification Number)? To know for sure, look into some VIN decoders or online services such as CarFax History Reports. Also independent research of the car's history may be necessary because not all accidents are reported to authorities. The VIN number is a stamped plate bolted to the dash under the windshield of late model Mustang. Also look at and check engine codes. The engine code is the 8th digit in the VIN and model year is coded in the 10th digit of the VIN. You can also read and see if a vehicle is the stock color paint and notice any and all performed body work.

1) VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) is a stamped plate bolted to the dash under the windshield.

2) EIN (Engine Identification Number) is also linked to valve cap.

3) Mustang should also have a certification label affixed to the drivers side door pillar.

4) Transmission identification tag is attached by the left engine-to-bell housing bolt for manual transmission, and is linked to the right side on automatics.

5) The rear differential identification tag is bolted to the rear differential cover.

Test Drive

Now you know if you are remotely interested in a Mustang out there, you should take it for a spin and notice how she reacts to rpm changes, gear shifts, braking, turning and extreme driving too. Ask the owner for a repair and service data log sheet just before test-driving. If he has no log sheet for maintenance, you are already one hand up to the seller. Check tire pressure, oil levels, and lighting of headlights, brake light and flashers before you start the engine. Now start the car and listen for any abnormalities in engine sound.

Now, check all safety belts. Do not be surprised if the passenger side seat belts are on backwards, it is a common TSB (Technical Service Bulletin) from Ford. Check interior wear and be sure to write down all the defects you notice in the car at all. Check all power options, including CD player.

Now you're ready to hit the road. Buckle up and take the car for a spin. Initially run normally to get the vehicle in proper operating conditions. After a warm up, get on the throttle and note how the car works at WOT (Wide Open Throttle). Come to a compete stop and test the braking capabilities. Be sure to travel over a Speed bump to test suspension components as well. Once you have completed your various tests to determine the mechanical structure Mustang, return it back to the seller and tell him that you have a few more similar cars to go test drive but you will keep in touch.

Do not Forget to log all the defects and data on the car!

Decisions, decisions

When you run the test and experienced a handful of Ford Mustang, compare the logs you have done on the necessary work and maintenance to be performed to see what the car that fits your needs best. Recall the seller advertised price and compare that to NADA for high mileage cars, or Kelley Blue Book for lower mileage cars. NADA rewards cars with lower miles by adding to the seller's price, but hinders high mileage cars by lowering the value for the specific year. Now that you know what Ford Mustang, you want to negotiate, you're ready to put your business skills to the test.

Negotiate

After narrowing your choices down to your budget, tastes, and preferences back to the vendor to negotiate. Always negotiate at Trade-in value, and work up. Never pay more than the book value of a car yourself unless it is altered in a way that calls for such a price. But remember also, never pay more than half of what the seller paid for his modifications when purchasing a used car.

Exit

Never pay cash. At least write a check and be sure to get some immediate and written receipt of payment for the vehicle to ensure your financial security. Now expects less than a week for the title to contact you for an in-state purchases, and expects no more than 2 weeks for a title on an out-of-state purchases. After receiving the title, go to the DMV (Department of Motor Vehicles) to get a code to the new title transfer. Be ready to pay taxes, which vary in price based on area and car type to receive the title and tag. These fees are mandatory and fair to pay for road maintenance, etc.

Enjoy

Now that you own your own Ford Mustang, enjoy the car, modify if you wish, have fun with the new doors the Ford Mustang will open, and remember, we'll see you on the road!