What is the Ford First-Time Buyer Program?
It's a joint program between Ford Credit and Ford Motor Company for buyers who have never financed a vehicle. Approved first-time buyers receive Ford Credit's maximum Tier 1 rate — the rate normally reserved for buyers with long-established credit — plus a $750 First-Time Buyer rebate on eligible new Fords financed through Ford Credit. The relaunched program runs July 7 through December 31, 2026.
What credit score do I need to qualify?
The program minimum is a 620 FICO score — lowered from 640 in the July 2026 expansion. Keep in mind that meeting the minimum doesn't guarantee approval; Ford Credit evaluates your full profile, including income, time on job, and payment-to-income ratio. The fastest way to know where you stand is to get pre-approved online — it takes minutes.
Can I really buy an F-150 or Bronco as a first-time buyer?
Yes. The July 2026 expansion doubled the eligible list to 10 models, adding the F-150, F-150 Lightning, Bronco, Explorer, and Mustang to the original five (Bronco Sport, Escape, Maverick, Ranger, and Mustang Mach-E). The program caps the amount financed at $50,000, so most core trims qualify outright while loaded builds may need additional cash down or trade equity.
How does the $750 bonus cash work?
Ford Motor Company provides a vehicle-specific First-Time Buyer rebate of $750 on eligible new Fords when you finance through Ford Credit. Two things to know: rebate offers are updated quarterly, so call us at (810) 390-5550 to confirm the current amount on your model, and the rebate can't be used as your down payment — the program requires a minimum $750 of your own cash down, separate from any rebates or trade equity.
Do I need a co-signer?
No co-signer is required — that's the point of the program. Ford Credit designed it so qualified buyers can be approved on their own, even with no auto credit history. A co-buyer is allowed if you want one, but the first-time buyer must be the primary applicant on the contract and meet all program requirements themselves.
Can I lease through the First-Time Buyer Program?
Yes. The program covers traditional financing up to 84 months, Ford Flex Buy up to 66 months, and leases up to 36 months on eligible new models — all with the Tier 1 rate benefit. Our finance team can run the numbers both ways so you can compare a purchase payment against a lease payment before you decide.
Does the program cover used vehicles?
Certified ones, yes. Ford Blue Advantage Gold and Blue Certified vehicles (current model year through 5 years old) qualify for the Tier 1 rate benefit with financing up to 84 months. The $750 bonus cash applies to new vehicles only, but on the right certified truck or SUV, the rate benefit alone can make a real difference in your payment.
I'm a college student or recent grad — is this my best program?
Maybe not — Ford also offers the College Student Purchase Plan for current students and graduates within two years of graduation, including trade school grads. It carries a Tier 0 rate and no minimum down payment requirement, and unlike the First-Time Buyer Program, prior auto credit doesn't disqualify you. Call us at (810) 390-5550 and we'll figure out which program puts you in a better position.
