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🍁🚜 Harvest Season Just Got a Whole Lot Sweeter at Freeport Ford! 🚜🍁 It’s the season of long days, muddy boots, and big rewards—and now your hard work can pay off in the form of a brand-new 2025 Ford F-150 XLT. Right now at Freeport Ford, you can bring home America’s favorite truck with an unbeatable offer: ⚙️ 2.9% APR for 66 months with Flex Buy PLUS $1,500 Bonus Cash! No smoke, no mirrors—just a solid deal built for hardworking folks who need a truck that works as hard as they do. Whether you’re hauling soybeans, towing your side-by-side, or loading up for hunting season, the F-150 XLT is engineered for strength, comfort, and capability. Why the 2025 Ford F-150 XLT Is a Farmer’s Best Friend This Fall Best-in-Class Towing & Payload: Perfect for hauling seed, feed, or your biggest harvest loads. Selectable Drive Modes: Handle gravel farm roads, slick fields, or highway hauls with confidence. Interior Built for Long Days: Heated seats, wireless CarPlay, and built-in workspace so you can manage your operation from the cab. Efficiency Meets Muscle: EcoBoost® power with better MPG means you’ll spend less time fueling up and more time in the field. 👉 Learn more at Ford.com — 2025 F-150 Overview Farm Smart — Buy Smart With soybean prices dipping this year, every penny matters. That’s why locking in 2.9% APR with Flex Buy can make all the difference. Flex Buy gives you lower payments up front, giving farmers extra breathing room before next season’s planting expenses hit. Ask our finance team how to structure your deal around your crop calendar—we get it, timing matters. Explore Freeport While You’re Here After you test-drive your new F-150, check out these local spots that make Freeport great: Stephenson County Fairgrounds – Home to ag events and farm expos. Greater Freeport Partnership Visitor Guide – Find local eateries and scenic fall drives. Jane Addams Trail – Take your new truck and bike for a ride through the countryside. Don’t Let This Deal Disappear Faster Than Harvest Weather The 2025 Ford F-150 XLT 2.9% APR for 66 months + $1,500 Bonus Cash won’t last long. Stop by Freeport Ford today before the leaves—and rates—change!

👻 Electrifying Savings Have Arrived at Freeport Ford! 👻 This Halloween season, the savings are anything but spooky. Right now at Freeport Ford, you can take home the all-electric 2025 Ford Mustang Mach-E with an offer that’s downright hair-raising (in the best way possible): ⚡ 0% APR for 72 Months ⚡ No tricks—just pure treats. The Ford Mustang Mach-E delivers a thrilling drive, modern design, and zero emissions, making it the perfect way to haunt the roads of Northern Illinois this fall. Why Drivers Love the 2025 Mustang Mach-E Instant Power: With lightning-fast acceleration and whisper-quiet performance, this EV redefines what a Mustang can be. Zero Emissions: Save at the pump and help keep Freeport’s fresh fall air clean. Smart Technology: Enjoy Ford’s advanced BlueCruise hands-free driving, wireless charging, and seamless smartphone integration. Stylish Design: Sleek lines and futuristic lighting make every drive feel like a sci-fi movie—without the drama. 👉 Learn more about the 2025 Mustang Mach-E directly from Ford: Ford.com — Mustang Mach-E Overview Explore Freeport in Electrified Style Take your new Mach-E on a scenic fall drive through Krape Park’s winding trails, stop for lunch at Ridott Corners Tavern, or cruise the countryside toward Lake Le-Aqua-Na State Park to enjoy the fall colors. Krape Park – Freeport Park District Lake Le-Aqua-Na State Park Greater Freeport Partnership Visitor Guide Whether you’re exploring downtown Freeport or heading out for a fall festival, the Mustang Mach-E gets you there with style, silence, and zero tailpipe emissions. A Deal This Good Won’t Haunt You Forever The 0% APR for 72 months offer won’t last long, so don’t wait until it disappears into the mist. Visit Freeport Ford today and see why this electric SUV is turning heads all over Northern Illinois.

The Stephenson County Fair is a summertime staple in Freeport—and this year, Freeport Ford went all out to make our booth a crowd favorite. From a high-powered vehicle lineup to mini test drives for the kids and a $200 Casey’s gift card raffle, we were thrilled to bring the horsepower, the fun, and the giveaways to one of our favorite local events. The Freeport Ford Adventure Track mini fleet, featuring pint-sized Broncos and a Mustang, ready to roll at the Stephenson County Fair in front of our Freeport Ford Transit event van. The Booth with All the Buzz Set up front and center, the Freeport Ford booth became a hot spot for families, fairgoers, and auto fans alike. Our Ford Adventure Track Mini Test Drive was back and better than ever, giving kids the thrill of driving their own mini Broncos around a specially designed course. The track originally wrapped around a real showstopper—our Ford Mustang GT —but after that beauty was snatched up and sold, we swapped it out for a full-sized Ford Bronco. The Bronco wasn’t just sitting pretty either—we removed the doors and roof to show off its full summer-ready, open-air capabilities. Talk about fair-weather fun! Our team at the Freeport Ford booth welcomed fairgoers of all ages to join the fun with a $200 Casey’s gift card raffle and the ever-popular Ford Adventure Track Mini Test Drive Raffle Alert: $200 Casey’s Gift Card Giveaway To add even more excitement, we held a raffle for a $200 Casey’s gift card, and fairgoers lined up for a chance to win. Fuel, pizza, snacks—you name it, $200 at Casey’s goes a long way. It was just one more way we gave back to the community we love. Ford’s Finest on Display If you were in the market for a new vehicle—or just love looking at what Ford has to offer—our booth was the place to be. We had an impressive lineup of new and popular models, including: Ford Bronco Sport Ford Escape Ford Expedition Tremor Ford Lightning (with onboard power features on display) Ford Mustang Mach-E Ford Transit-250 Ford Transit-350 Ford Ranger Ford Raptor Whether you're into off-road beasts, family-ready SUVs, or cutting-edge EVs, we had something for everyone to explore. Our team was on-site to answer questions, open doors (literally), and show you all the high-tech features and rugged versatility Ford is known for. Community, Connection, and Cars Events like the Stephenson County Fair give us the opportunity to connect with our neighbors, showcase what makes Ford special, and have a whole lot of fun while doing it. From the kids zooming around the Adventure Track to the parents eyeing that Bronco (doors off, of course), we had a blast interacting with our community and being part of such a beloved event. Freeport Ford is Proud to Be Your Local Dealer We proudly serve Freeport, Rockford, Pecatonica, Stockton, Lena, Galena, Monroe, Beloit, and beyond. Whether you're stopping by our booth at the fair or visiting our showroom, we're here to provide you with fair prices, honest service, and a no-pressure buying experience. Come see why so many people choose Freeport Ford —we’re more than just a dealership, we’re your hometown team. Royal Riders: Stephenson County Pageant Winners Hit the Track One of the most memorable moments from the fair? When the newly crowned Stephenson County Pageant winners made a special stop at the Freeport Ford booth to test out the Adventure Track Mini Bronco. These local royalty members may usually ride in convertibles during parades, but at the fair, they opted for something with a little more horsepower (and way more fun). They not only took a lap in our mini Broncos, but also posed for photos with the full-sized Bronco that was displayed in the center of the track. It was doors-off, roof-off, and full summer mode—making it the perfect backdrop for a photo fit for a queen. And yes, we’ll be sharing that epic moment too. Stephenson County Pageant winners posing in style inside the doors-off, roof-off Ford Bronco displayed at the center of our Adventure Track. A perfect match for a perfect fair day

The EV Revolution Is Here in Freeport Freeport drivers are already starting to see more EVs on the road — and for good reason. Ford’s electric lineup is making it easier, more affordable, and more practical than ever to go electric. The government incentives that have been helping buyers save thousands are disappearing soon, and when they do, the savings you can lock in today may be gone tomorrow. Ford EVs with Real Range Say goodbye to range anxiety. Ford’s electric vehicles are built for everyday driving and long-distance adventures: Mustang Mach-E: Up to 312 miles of range on a single charge. F-150 Lightning: Up to 320 miles, plus the strength and power you expect from an F-Series truck. E-Transit: Ideal for businesses, with customizable range and charging solutions. Charging Is Easier Than Ever In Freeport, Rockford, and across Northern Illinois, public charging stations are multiplying quickly. And with Ford’s BlueOval Charge Network, you have access to over 100,000 chargers across North America — including fast chargers for road trips. Ford’s Power Promise: Home Charging Made Simple Here’s where Ford takes it a step further: when you purchase a new Ford EV, you get a complimentary Level 2 home charger installation through the Ford Power Promise. That means you can plug in at night and wake up to a full charge every morning — no more waiting at a public station unless you’re traveling long distance. Why Buy Now Government EV credits and rebates are being reduced and phased out. Acting now means you still get to enjoy thousands in savings, on top of Ford’s offers. Combine that with lower fuel costs and reduced maintenance, and the value is hard to beat. 👉 Freeport Ford is here to help you make the switch before the incentives vanish. Visit us today to test drive the Mach-E or the F-150 Lightning, and experience the future of driving in Freeport, IL.

Big news, Freeport, IL. For a limited time only, Freeport Ford is offering the Ford 0‑0‑0‑0 Sales Event, and it’s one of the most aggressive promotions we've ever seen. If you’ve been thinking about upgrading to a brand-new Ford, now is the time to do it—with zero excuses. Here’s what you get: 0% APR for 48 months $0 down payment required $0 payments for the first 90 days $0 maintenance costs for 2 full years That’s four big reasons to get behind the wheel of a new Ford today. Which Ford Models Qualify? This unbeatable offer is available on some of Ford’s most popular 2024 models. Well-qualified buyers can take advantage of this special on the following vehicles: ✅ Eligible Ford Models for the 0-0-0-0 Offer: This game-changing promotion is available on a hand-picked lineup of Ford’s most popular and powerful vehicles: 2024 Ford Bronco 2024 Ford Bronco Sport 2024 Ford Expedition 2024 Ford F-150 2024 Ford Super Duty XLT 2024 Ford Transit Wagon 2025 Ford Explorer Whether you’re looking for rugged off-road capabilities, full-size SUV space, truck strength, or comfortable passenger hauling, this offer has something for every kind of driver. *See dealer for details* Better Than Employee Pricing—But Only for a Limited Time You read that right. Ford’s former Employee Pricing program has been replaced by something even better for consumers: the 0‑0‑0‑0 deal, available exclusively to well-qualified buyers. So what does “better than employee pricing” mean for you? You pay 0% APR for 48 months —that’s real savings, not just hype. You make no payment for 90 days, giving you breathing room as you transition into your new ride. $0 down means more flexibility with your budget. And you get 2 years of complimentary maintenance to keep your vehicle in tip-top shape without spending a dime. Why Freeport Ford? Located in the heart of Stephenson County, Freeport Ford is proud to serve the communities of Rockford, Pecatonica, Stockton, Lena, Galena, Monroe, Beloit, and beyond. We’re just a quick drive from Southern Wisconsin and a favorite dealership for folks across Northern Illinois. We’re known for honest pricing, small-town service, and big-city inventory. And when Ford drops a deal like this one, we go all in to make sure our customers are the first to benefit. Don’t Miss Out—This Zero Won’t Last Forever Ford’s 0‑0‑0‑0 Event is a limited-time promotion, and inventory is moving fast. Whether you're ready to haul, explore, escape, or take the fast lane in a new Mustang, now’s the time to act. 📞 Call Freeport Ford today at (815) 232-6868 📍 Or visit us at Freeport Ford, 555 W. Galena Ave, Freeport, IL 61032 🕓 We’re open Monday through Saturday with flexible test drive appointments available. Let’s Put You in a New Ford—With Zero Regrets From zero interest to zero payments for 90 days, we’re making it easier than ever to buy your dream Ford. Stop by Freeport Ford, your trusted hometown Ford dealer, and drive home in a new vehicle today—with a payment plan that works on your terms.

At Freeport Ford, we’re known for bringing the horsepower—but on Thursday, July 24th, we brought something even more special to the Stephenson County Fair: actual horse power. Literally. As part of our ongoing community involvement and sponsorship of this year’s fair, we hosted a very special guest just steps from our booth— Tom the Wonder Horse. Friendly, gentle, and beloved by all, Tom proved exactly why he earned the nickname “Wonder Horse.” A Gentle Giant with a Big Heart Tom was the star of the day, stationed in a shaded stable near the Freeport Ford booth. Despite the mid-summer heat, he stayed cool, calm, and collected—soaking in every brush stroke, ear scratch, and selfie opportunity with total grace. We invited kids to brush, pet, and spend one-on-one time with Tom, and the smiles were nonstop. Many of the kids had never had a chance to be that close to a horse before, and watching them form a connection with such a kind and gentle animal was an experience we won’t soon forget. Sponsored by Freeport Ford: Because We Love More Than Just Cars We’re proud to say that Freeport Ford sponsored Tom’s appearance, and we couldn’t be happier with the turnout. Events like this are exactly why we show up at the fair—not just to talk about vehicles, but to be a part of the community. Whether it’s helping a first-time driver find their perfect Ford or introducing a child to their first horse, it all comes back to creating memorable, meaningful experiences. A Wildly Successful Day at the Fair Even with the heat, attendance at our booth—and Tom’s stable—was high. Parents appreciated the peaceful break for their little ones, and kids left with big grins and even bigger stories. Tom? He basked in the love, munching hay like the local celebrity he clearly is. From the Ford Adventure Track Mini Test Drive to our incredible lineup of Ford vehicles on display all week, Thursday’s horse-powered event added a whole new dimension to Freeport Ford’s presence at the fair. Freeport Ford: Your Local Partner for Fun, Family, and Fords Located in Freeport, IL, and serving the surrounding communities of Rockford, Stockton, Lena, Monroe, Galena, and beyond, we’re more than just a car dealership—we’re part of your hometown. Whether it’s hosting interactive events, supporting local causes, or just helping you find the right ride, we’re committed to bringing value to your life—on and off the road.

This year’s Tutty Baker Festival was one for the books—and Freeport Ford was right in the heart of the action. With a prime booth location between Deininger’s Floral and Mort’s Bar & Grill, we brought the energy, the innovation, and the snacks. Whether you stopped by for the Freeport Ford Adventure Track Mini Test Drive, got an up-close look at the latest Ford electric vehicles, or just came for the free dip, we were thrilled to be part of this fantastic Freeport tradition. What is the Tutty Baker Festival? The Tutty Baker Fest is one of Freeport’s most anticipated summer events, celebrating the spirit and culture of our historic river town. With live music, delicious local food, artisan vendors, and family-friendly attractions, it’s the kind of event that brings everyone together. Learn more about the festival here: Tutty Baker Fest Official Website. Freeport Ford’s Adventure Track: Test Drives for the Next Generation Our booth wasn’t just for the grown-ups. Kids had a blast behind the wheel at the Freeport Ford Adventure Track Mini Test Drive, featuring mini ride-on Broncos that zipped through our fun-sized course. With pint-sized test drivers grinning ear to ear, we sparked some early brand loyalty—because it’s never too soon to fall in love with a Ford. Electric Power Meets Tailgate Fun We also brought the Ford Lightning, Mach-E, and Ford Bronco to showcase what modern innovation looks like up close. Festivalgoers got to explore these cutting-edge vehicles and learn how the Ford Lightning’s onboard power system can fuel your entire tailgate setup. Seriously—this truck is like a mobile power station. Whether it’s football season or a festival weekend, the Lightning is ready to charge your speakers, lights, slow cooker, or even your blender. Tailgating just got an upgrade. The Dips Were a Hit Speaking of tailgating—what's a Ford-powered booth without some serious snacks? We served up three crowd-pleasing dips, and yes, they were powered by the Lightning: Mexican Street Corn Dip Get the recipe: Mexican Street Corn Dip Recipe Buffalo Chicken Dip Get the recipe: Buffalo Chicken Dip Recipe Creamy Queso Dip Get the recipe: Queso Dip Recipe We had folks coming back for seconds—and asking if the Lightning came with a built-in recipe book. It doesn’t (yet), but you can bet it’s built for good times. Community, Connection, and Cars We love getting out into the community, and events like Tutty Baker Fest give us a chance to connect with the people who make Freeport such a great place to live and work. Whether you’re in the market for a new vehicle or just wanted to take a bite of buffalo chicken dip and hear about EV tech, we were happy to have you. Want to Learn More About Ford's Electric Lineup? Stop by Freeport Ford in Freeport, IL. We proudly serve the surrounding communities of Rockford, Pecatonica, Stockton, Lena, Galena, Monroe, Beloit, and beyond. From new Fords to our selection of pre-owned vehicles, we offer fair prices, honest service, and a car-buying experience that’s second to none. Visit us today to test drive the Lightning, Mach-E, or Bronco, and see why more people are choosing Freeport Ford.

At Freeport Ford, we know your time is valuable — and your schedule is full. That’s why we’re proud to offer complimentary pick-up and delivery for all service appointments within our local service area. Whether you need an oil change, tire rotation, brake inspection, or a more complex repair, we’ll pick up your vehicle, take care of the work, and return it to you — cleaned, serviced, and ready to go. Hassle-Free Vehicle Maintenance in Freeport, IL Car maintenance shouldn’t disrupt your day. Our free pick-up and delivery service takes the stress out of scheduling repairs or regular service by bringing the Freeport Ford Service Department right to your driveway. It’s our way of showing that customer service doesn’t stop at the showroom. We’ll coordinate a time that works for you, pick up your vehicle from your home or workplace, perform the service needed, and deliver it back to you — no added fees, no surprises, just convenience. How It Works: Schedule your service online or by phone. Request complimentary pick-up and delivery when booking. We pick up your vehicle, perform the service, and bring it back to you. Enjoy your fully serviced vehicle — without ever leaving your home or office. It’s that easy. Available Services Include: Oil changes and filter replacements Tire rotations and replacements Brake service and inspections Battery checks and replacements Fluid checks and top-offs Engine diagnostics Warranty repairs And more! If your vehicle is due for maintenance or you're hearing a funny noise you don't like, don't wait — let Freeport Ford's certified technicians take care of it while you focus on what matters most. Serving Freeport and Beyond Our Ford pick-up and delivery service is available throughout Freeport, Rockford, Pecatonica, Stockton, Lena, Galena, Monroe, Beloit, and many surrounding areas. If you're not sure whether you're in our service range, just give us a call — we’re happy to help. Whether you drive a Ford F-150, Explorer, Escape, Bronco, or even a Ford commercial vehicle, we’ve got you covered. Our expert service team uses genuine Ford parts and the latest diagnostic tools to ensure your vehicle stays in top condition. Skip the wait. Skip the drive. Let Freeport Ford come to you. Schedule your next service today and ask about our free pick-up and delivery. Shop Freeport Ford in Freeport, IL, where we proudly serve the surrounding communities of Rockford, Pecatonica, Stockton, Lena, Galena, Monroe, Beloit, and beyond. Conveniently located in Northern Illinois and close to Southern Wisconsin, Freeport Ford is your trusted destination for a great selection of new and used Ford vehicles, expert service, and a customer-first approach that makes car ownership easy. Visit us today and experience the Freeport Ford difference.

At Freeport Ford, we’re more than just your local source for new and used Ford vehicles — we’re your neighbors. That’s why we’re thrilled to announce our sponsorship of the Stephenson County Farmer’s Market for the 2025 season! This bustling community event brings together local farmers, crafters, food vendors, and small businesses right here in downtown Freeport, IL, and we’re proud to be part of the tradition that makes our region shine. Supporting Local Roots — Literally Our partnership with the Stephenson County Farmer’s Market is rooted (pun intended) in our commitment to community. Every other week, you’ll find our Freeport Ford crew set up at the market — not just showcasing the latest new Ford models, but also handing out heirloom seed packets to marketgoers. Why seeds? Because like you, we believe in growing local. Whether it’s a garden full of tomatoes or a driveway with a brand-new Ford F-150, we’re here to help you plant the seeds for something great. What to Expect at the Market with Freeport Ford Stop by the Stephenson County Farmer’s Market every other week to: Explore a rotating lineup of Ford vehicles, including family favorites like the Ford Escape, workhorses like the F-150, and cutting-edge electric vehicles like the Ford Mustang Mach-E and F-150 Lightning. Grab a free heirloom seed packet — varieties will change each week, from vibrant wildflowers to hardy vegetables. It’s our way of helping you keep Freeport green and growing. Ask questions about vehicle features, test drive options, and special offers — our friendly team will be there to chat, no pressure, just community. We’ll also be sharing updates on upcoming Freeport Ford events, promotions, and local initiatives we’re supporting — because when you shop local, it’s not just about buying a car, it’s about building something together. A Stronger Freeport Starts at the Roots We’re proud to sponsor the Stephenson County Farmer’s Market, a Freeport staple that draws visitors from Rockford, Lena, Stockton, Pecatonica, Galena, and beyond. Supporting small businesses, fresh produce, handmade goods, and hometown connections is exactly what this market is all about — and we’re honored to stand alongside them. As your trusted Ford dealership in Freeport, IL, we’re here to do more than sell cars. We’re here to be part of the fabric of our community — and that means getting our hands dirty, shaking hands with farmers, and showing up with seeds, smiles, and a few awesome rides. So next time you're at the Stephenson County Farmer’s Market, look for the Freeport Ford booth, check out our featured Ford vehicle of the week, and don’t forget your free heirloom seeds. Let’s grow something together. Shop Freeport Ford in Freeport, IL, where we proudly serve the surrounding communities of Rockford, Pecatonica, Stockton, Lena, Galena, Monroe, Beloit, and beyond. Conveniently located in Northern Illinois and close to Southern Wisconsin, Freeport Ford is your trusted destination for a great selection of new and used Ford vehicles at unbeatable prices. We pride ourselves on our commitment to honesty, integrity, and delivering a car-buying experience that’s second to none. Visit us today to see why so many drivers choose Freeport Ford!

This past weekend, Freeport Ford had the pleasure of joining car enthusiasts from all over Northern Illinois and Southern Wisconsin at one of our favorite local events— Crusin for a Cause, hosted by the Freeport Lions Club. Set in the heart of downtown Freeport, IL, in the lot directly across from the iconic Union Dairy, the event brought together an impressive lineup of classic cars, muscle machines, and modern marvels—all for a great cause. We were proud to display our 2025 Ford Mustang GT Premium Convertible, a sleek and powerful nod to the Mustang legacy. But we were even more honored to be parked right next to the star of the show: Wayne Crakenberger’s beautifully restored 1969 Mustang Mach 1, which took home the coveted Best Ford award. Watching two generations of Mustangs shine side by side—one vintage, one brand-new—was a special moment for any Ford fan. A Freeport Tradition With Purpose The Crusin for a Cause event isn’t just a celebration of cars; it’s a celebration of community. Organized by the Freeport Lions Club, the show supports vital local causes and programs right here in Stephenson County. Attendees were treated to live music, food vendors, and plenty of chrome and horsepower to admire, all set against the historic charm of downtown Freeport. And yes—we may have indulged in a scoop (or two) of ice cream from Union Dairy, a Freeport institution since 1914! Celebrating the Best of Ford—Then and Now The Mustang has long been a symbol of American performance and freedom. Wayne Crakenberger’s ’69 Mustang Mach 1 stood as a shining example of Ford’s legacy, while our 2025 Mustang GT Premium Convertible showed just how far innovation and engineering have come. Whether you love the rumble of a classic V8 or the smooth power of modern tech, Ford’s pony car continues to turn heads. Thank You, Freeport We want to give a big thank you to the Freeport Lions Club for inviting us to participate and to everyone who came out to enjoy the event. Supporting local car shows and community fundraisers is a huge part of who we are at Freeport Ford. We’re proud to be a part of this incredible town—and we’re always happy to talk cars, community, and the road ahead. Looking for your own Mustang moment? Come visit Freeport Ford, located right here in Freeport, IL. We proudly serve the surrounding communities of Rockford, Lena, Stockton, Galena, Monroe, Beloit, and beyond. Whether you're searching for a new Ford Mustang, a reliable SUV, or a used truck, our team is here to help you find the perfect fit. Stay tuned for more upcoming events, specials, and community highlights—because at Freeport Ford, we’re driven by more than just cars.

On Saturday, April 26, 2025, Freeport, Illinois—affectionately known as “Pretzel City, USA”—hosted its fourth annual Pretzel Fest, a celebration of community, flavor, and a bit of salty fun. Organized by the Greater Freeport Partnership, the event featured a variety of activities, including live entertainment, food vendors, and a Guinness World Record attempt for the largest pretzel image created by humans. Freeport Ford Joins the Festivities Freeport Ford participated in the event by bringing a sleek 2025 Ford Escape to showcase its blend of style and practicality. The Escape's modern design and advanced features made it a perfect fit for the vibrant atmosphere of Pretzel Fest. Visitors had the opportunity to explore the vehicle and learn more about its capabilities, all while enjoying the festivities.​ A Record-Breaking Pretzel Formation The highlight of the day was the community's effort to break the Guinness World Record for the largest pretzel image created by humans. At 10:30 a.m., participants gathered at the FAM Art Plaza, forming the shape of a giant pretzel. A drone captured the aerial image of the formation, which will be submitted for official recognition. Community Spirit and Local Flavor Beyond the record attempt, Pretzel Fest offered a variety of attractions. The downtown area was filled with vendors offering pretzel-themed foods and merchandise, live music performances, and activities for all ages. Local businesses showcased their offerings, contributing to the festive atmosphere and highlighting the community's support for one another. Freeport Ford is proud to be part of such a vibrant community and looks forward to participating in future events that celebrate the spirit of Freeport.​ For more information about upcoming events and activities in Freeport, visit the Greater Freeport Partnership's official website.

In the ever-evolving landscape of the U.S. automotive market, recent developments present both challenges and unique opportunities for consumers. The Trump administration's implementation of significant tariffs on imported vehicles and auto parts is poised to reshape car prices nationwide. However, at Freeport Ford, we're turning these challenges into opportunities for our customers. Here's why now is the optimal time to drive home in a new or used vehicle. Understanding the Impact of New Tariffs on Vehicle Prices On April 3, 2025, the Trump administration enacted a 25% tariff on all imported automobiles and certain auto parts, aiming to bolster domestic manufacturing and address trade imbalances. This policy shift has immediate and profound implications for vehicle pricing across the country.​ Projected Price Increases: Analysts predict that these tariffs could escalate vehicle prices by $2,000 to $4,000, potentially pushing the average new car transaction price to over $50,000. ​ Competitor Strategies: Chevy and Dodge Respond to Tariffs While Ford has embraced employee pricing to offer savings to customers during this challenging time, other manufacturers, like Chevrolet and Dodge, have responded quite differently—leading to concerns over rising prices and market positioning. Chevrolet 's Price Increases In response to the new tariffs, Chevrolet has significantly raised prices across many of their models, including some of their most popular vehicles. For example, the 2025 Chevy Silverado has seen price hikes of up to $4,500 depending on the trim level. While Chevrolet continues to push for high volume sales, these price increases are expected to alienate some potential buyers who are sensitive to cost, especially in a climate where tariffs are already driving prices up. Furthermore, Chevrolet's decision to limit the availability of certain popular trims for 2025, such as the Silverado's higher-end models, could leave many customers without the option they were hoping for. This is especially noticeable as competition in the full-size truck market intensifies, with other brands like Ford offering more competitive options at comparable prices. Dodge 's Response: Not Quite the Deal It Once Was Dodge has also implemented significant price hikes on their vehicles, particularly the 2025 Dodge Ram trucks. On average, prices have jumped by $3,000–$4,000 on many trims, with some heavy-duty models even seeing increases as high as $6,000. This price surge has prompted backlash from consumers who were once drawn to Dodge for their relatively more affordable pricing compared to other full-size truck competitors. In addition, Dodge has been criticized for scaling back the availability of some of their most in-demand models, like the Dodge Charger and Challenger, while pushing for more expensive performance-oriented trims. This pricing shift seems less customer-focused and more geared toward maximizing profits—further alienating buyers who once saw Dodge as an affordable, performance-oriented option. The Ford Difference Unlike Chevrolet and Dodge, Ford is taking a more customer-focused approach by extending its employee pricing to all U.S. buyers, including many of its 2024 and 2025 models. This move allows consumers to purchase a vehicle at a lower cost than traditional retail pricing, positioning Ford as a more accessible choice, particularly in the face of rising tariffs. By keeping their pricing structure more in line with what customers have come to expect, Ford is staying competitive without significantly increasing prices—making now the ideal time to buy before those price hikes hit. Why Acting Now Benefits You Given that vehicles currently on dealership lots, including ours at Freeport Ford, were acquired before the implementation of these tariffs, they are not subject to the new import taxes. This means you can purchase a vehicle at pre-tariff prices, securing substantial savings.​ Sales Trends: There's a noticeable uptick in consumer activity as buyers rush to make purchases before prices rise. For example, car dealerships in New York reported a 15% increase in sales as customers sought to beat the tariff-induced price hikes. ​ Ford's Employee Pricing: Exclusive Savings for All To further assist our customers, Ford has introduced the "From America, For America" initiative, extending employee pricing to all U.S. shoppers. This program allows customers to purchase vehicles at the same price Ford employees pay, which is typically below the dealer invoice price. The promotion runs from April 3 through June 2, 2025, covering most 2024 and 2025 Ford and Lincoln models, including gas, hybrid, plug-in hybrid, and diesel variants. ​ Notable Exclusions: While many models are included, certain vehicles like the Ford Raptor, 2025 Expedition, Navigator, and Super Duty trucks are excluded from this offer. ​ Why Now Is the Time to Buy Pre-Tariff Inventory: Vehicles available at Freeport Ford were acquired before the new tariffs, ensuring you benefit from current pricing without the added costs that will affect incoming inventory.​ Employee Pricing Advantage: With Ford's employee pricing extended to all customers, you can enjoy significant discounts on a wide range of models, enhancing the value of your purchase.​ Market Dynamics: As demand surges and tariffs take full effect, prices are expected to rise. Purchasing now allows you to avoid these increases and secure a favorable deal.​ Looking Ahead The automotive market is navigating uncharted territory with these new tariffs influencing both pricing and availability. By acting now, you position yourself to take advantage of current pricing structures and Ford's exceptional employee pricing offer.​ Visit Freeport Ford Today At Freeport Ford, we are committed to providing our customers with the best value and service. Our knowledgeable staff can guide you through our current inventory, help you understand the benefits of the employee pricing program, and assist you in making an informed decision tailored to your needs.​ Disclaimer: Vehicle availability and pricing are subject to change. It's advisable to contact Freeport Ford for the most current information and to confirm vehicle eligibility under Ford's employee pricing program.