Used Ford buying guide
- Bronco
- Bronco Sport
- C-Max
- C-Max energi
- E-150
- E-250
- E-250 extended
- E-350
- E-Transit T-350
- E450
- Econoline
- EcoSport
- Edge
- Escape
- Escape Hybrid
- Escape Plug In Hybrid
- Expedition
- Expedition EL
- Expedition Max
- Explorer
- Explorer Hybrid
- Explorer Police
- F150
- F150 Lightning
- F250
- F350
- F450
- F550
- F600
- F650
- F750
- Fiesta
- Flex
- Focus
- Focus BEV
- Focus Electric
- Fusion
- Fusion Energi
- Fusion Hybrid
- Maverick
- Mustang
- Mustang Mach-E
- Ranger
- Taurus
- Taurus Police
- Transit 150
- Transit 250
- Transit 350
- Transit Connect
About Ford
Ford is an icon in the automotive world thanks to its founder, Henry Ford. He revolutionized the production of cars through the creation of the moving assembly line. This brought internal combustion engine vehicles to the masses. Ford has continued making history ever since. The first F-series truck debuted in 1948 and remains one of Ford's most iconic creations. Ford offers a bit of everything including subcompacts, pickup trucks, and muscle cars.
What CarMax customers like
Ride and Handling
Fuel Economy
Interior Space
What CarMax customers don’t like
Fuel Economy
Cabin Noise
Technology and Entertainment
Ford FAQs
When considering the mileage of a used Ford, remember that it’s not just about what the odometer shows. It’s also about the vehicle’s maintenance record and any major work it’s had done, which can be found on its history report. To learn more, read our comprehensive guide on why mileage matters.
Reliability is a solid indicator of what makes a good used car. According to RepairPal, Ford’s overall rating is 3.5 out of 5.0, which is above average. The majority of Ford models are either average or above average in reliability, with midsize and subcompact Ford cars generally ranking the highest.
The RepairPal Reliability Rating for Ford is above average at 3.5. Check the ratings of individual models for more specific details, and consider reading our guide to mileage to find out how it can affect your choice of used Ford.
Ford makes some of the best-known vehicles on our roads. Currently, Ford is focused on electric vehicles (including the Mustang Mach-E and the F-150 Lightning), trucks (such as the F-series models), and SUVs (like the Escape, Bronco, and Edge).
Ford has retired multiple models over the years. For example, the Focus was discontinued in 2018. In 2019, Ford discontinued the Fiesta, which was previously available in two varieties of subcompact. 2019 also saw the end of the Taurus and the Flex, and the Fusion followed in 2020.


1. Ford C-Max
CarMax owner rating
Pros
Comfortable cabin
Great cargo capacity
Accelerates quickly
Cons
Lacks driver-assistance features
Unimpressive design
Outdated platform

2. Ford Ranger
CarMax owner rating
Pros
Turbocharged engine does not disappoint
Dimensions make city driving easier
Seating upfront is well-padded and comfortable
Cons
Climate control functionality can be frustrating
Bumpy ride
Cab storage options are limited

3. Ford Fiesta
CarMax owner rating
Pros
Intuitive available SYNC® 3 infotainment system
Fun-to-drive demeanor
ST performance trim model stands out from the subcompact crowd
Cons
The 1.6L base engine is only okay
Close competitors offer more space for passengers and cargo
Seat padding feels sparse

4. Ford Escape
CarMax owner rating
Pros
Smooth city and highway ride
Intuitive SYNC® 4 infotainment system
Plenty of engine choices
Cons
Handling lacks liveliness
Transmission can be abrupt when shifting
Body roll in tight corners

5. Ford Taurus
CarMax owner rating
Pros
Generous trunk space
Gracious driving experience with firm steering
Available with all-wheel drive
Cons
Seating positions across both rows feel outdated
Not as spacious as competitor sedans of this size
Rear visibility is restricted

6. Ford Fusion
CarMax owner rating
Pros
Composed ride and elegant interior
Good selection of standard driver aids
All-wheel drive availability
Great trunk and storage cubbies
Cons
Rear visibility isn't the best
Lackluster base engine performance
Base trim infotainment is frustrating to get to grips with

7. Ford Focus
CarMax owner rating
Pros
Sporty steering and handling
Quiet interior
Comfortable ride
Cons
Tight back seats for adults
Slow acceleration
Key driver aids only on top trim

8. Ford Edge
CarMax owner rating
Pros
Passenger and cargo space
User-friendly infotainment system
Standard all-wheel drive
Cons
Uneven ride quality over rough surfaces
Poor outward visibility
Transmission shifts too frequently
Ready to find your used Ford?
RepairPal reliability ratings
RepairPal Reliability Ratings are based on the actual cost, frequency, and severity of unscheduled repairs and maintenance on make/model data for select 2008-2022 vehicles. The reliability of a specific vehicle may vary depending on its maintenance and driving history, model year, trim, and features. RepairPal Reliability Ratings are provided by RepairPal and CarMax is not responsible for their accuracy. These ratings are based on RepairPal Reliability data as of August 2023. Learn more about RepairPal reliability ratings.
Unless otherwise noted, information related to these featured vehicles comes from third-party sources, including manufacturer information. We make every effort to provide accurate information, but please verify before purchasing. Product and company names may be trademarks or registered trademarks of third-party entities. Use of them does not imply any affiliation with or endorsement by these entities. We hope you found this information helpful. This content is intended to inform and is not meant to indicate that a particular vehicle is currently available or recommended for you.
RepairPal Reliability Ratings are provided by RepairPal and CarMax is not responsible for their accuracy. These ratings are based on RepairPal Reliability data as of 3/18/2025. Learn more at repairpal.com/reliability.
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Various factors may impact towing capacity, including weight of passengers, cargo, and options/accessories.
Fuel economy figures are based on EPA estimates for when vehicle sold as new. Fuel economy may vary for reasons like driving conditions and vehicle history. Unless specified, figures are for vehicles equipped with an automatic transmission. See fueleconomy.gov.
Range figures are based on EPA estimates for when vehicle sold as new and assume a full battery charge. Range will vary based on things like battery age, vehicle condition and history, driving and charging habits, accessory use, and driving conditions. Battery capacity may decrease with time and use. See fueleconomy.gov for more info.
We hope you found this information helpful. This content is intended to inform and is not meant to indicate that a particular vehicle is currently available or recommended for you.
Statements of fuel economy or EV range are based on EPA and other third-party estimates for vehicles when new. Fuel economy and EV range will degrade with time and vary based on age, driving conditions, vehicle history, and other conditions. See fueleconomy.gov for more info.
Unless otherwise noted, information related to featured vehicles comes from third-party sources, including manufacturer information. Product and company names may be trademarks or registered trademarks of third-party entities. Use of them does not imply any affiliation with or endorsement by these entities. By clicking on any video links, you will be taken to a third-party site maintained by YouTube, Inc.
We make every effort to provide accurate information, but please verify before purchasing.
























