Manning Car Buyer’s Resource Guide
We tend to hear horror stories about the car-buying experience, from the stress of choosing between a never-ending list of SUVs and sedans to the hassle of car salesmen convincing us we need the high-end Ford F-150.
Our Manning dealership, however, aims to bring back the joy of buying a new — or new-to-you — vehicle. And we believe the best way to make car-buying fun again is to start by being informed.
In this guide, we've created a one-stop shop for Manning residents to help them make informed car-buying decisions. From researching new Ford vehicles to financial planning to maintenance, Santee Ford has everything you need to know when it comes to car shopping.
Ready to start your search?
Shopping for Your Ford
The first step to buying a car is by far the most fun part of the experience: shopping for the ride that best suits your lifestyle. But for as much fun as shopping for a car can be, it can also be overwhelming.
What's the difference between new and certified pre-owned? Is a hybrid the same as an electric vehicle? Don't worry! We've gathered together key terms you'll come across as you browse our selection of new Ford models!
Key Terms
Gas-powered vehicles run on an internal combustion engine fueled by gasoline or diesel. While gas-powered vehicles are equipped with a battery to start the engine, no electricity is used to move the vehicle.
Hybrid vehicles are the middle ground between fully electric and gas-powered vehicles. These vehicles run on both an internal combustion engine and an electric motor, with the electric system acting as a generator when the driver applies the brakes, recycling energy and storing it in a battery pack.
Fully-electric vehicles never need to stop at a gas station again — unless it has a charging outlet. An electric vehicle (EV) replaces the internal combustion engine with an electric motor. When the battery starts to run low, your vehicle is recharged by plugging into a charging station.
CPO vehicles are a specific type of used car that have undergone a comprehensive inspection and meet criteria set by the manufacturer, such as being only a few years old and having less than 60,000 miles.
Now that you have some key terms to familiarize yourself with the shopping process, start shopping from the comfort of your home! Take a deep dive into our inventory with our model showroom, which lets you explore by model, or start building your dream ride with the build-and-price tool.
If you need more in-depth information on specific models, our model research page has everything you want to know about the latest models, from performance stats to technology features.
Financial Planning & Tools
Once you've settled on your chosen Ford vehicle, it's time to start considering your finances and how your vehicle fits into the equation.
Estimate monthly payments. Plug in your down payment, trade-in value, loan term, and interest rate to find your buying power.
Value Your TradeGet a quote on your current vehicle. Enter key details and our team will take it from there.
Get Pre-ApprovedOur finance specialists work with a trusted network of lenders to secure the best rate available. Start online with a few clicks.
New Vehicle DealsExplore current offers and incentives to make your new purchase less daunting.
Pre-Owned SpecialsBrowse rotating specials on our pre-owned inventory for even more savings.
As one of the leading car dealerships in Manning, SC, we believe that financial planning doesn't need to be all about what you can afford. It's also about how we can help along the way.
Ready to find your next Ford? Shop our full inventory today.
Browse New InventoryThe Local Advantage
At Santee Ford, we believe that where you buy your vehicle matters just as much as what you buy. As a longstanding member of the community, we offer a personalized experience that national online retailers simply can't match.
Choosing a local Manning car dealership means more than just a shorter drive; it means investing back into your community. We offer tailored expertise geared towards Manning drivers, commitment to our community, and straightforward processes from test drives to financing.
Speaking of Test Drives…
When you stop in to test drive a Ford, here are some key things to look out for and do when you get behind the wheel:
- Look for scratches, dings, or other appearance issues on the exterior
- Consider the cargo area and the space you'll need access to
- Inspect the interior, considering comfort, appearance, and connectivity features
- Consider the visibility behind the wheel: how well can you see from the driver's seat?
- Listen for any noises from the engine, brakes, and while handling the vehicle
What Happens After You Drive Off Our Lot
You've found the perfect Ford vehicle, you've worked with our finance specialists to create a personalized payment plan, and now you're ready to take your ride home!
You might think this is the end of the process, but it's only the beginning. To ensure you get the most out of your vehicle and maintain its value, we've gathered the essential resources every owner needs.
Scheduled Maintenance & Expert Care
Keeping up with your Ford maintenance schedule is the best way to ensure your vehicle stays on the road for years to come. Easily schedule your Ford service online, from routine tasks like oil changes and tire rotations to more serious concerns like engine and transmission issues. Our factory-trained technicians are experts in everything Ford, from the all-electric Mustang Mach-E to the powerful Ford F-150.
Looking for specific advice but nervous to ask? We've taken the time to deliver in-depth information on your most-asked service questions. When your Ford needs a repair, our service center uses genuine OEM parts to ensure your vehicle remains 100% Ford.
Take the Next Step in Your Car-Buying Journey with Santee Ford!
At Santee Ford, we are proud to build on that local legacy by offering the specialized care and inventory that Manning residents have come to expect from their hometown experts.
Serving customers in Manning and surrounding areas six days a week, visit us today to see why people choose Santee Ford for their car-buying experience!