Blog / Farmington Ford Dealer

Putting Your Tax Refund Toward a Ford: A Farmington Buyer's Guide

Orange and white Ford Bronco Sport SUVs side by side, compact SUV choices for tax refund shoppers in Farmington MO

Buying  |  Farmington, MO

A refund can make buying a vehicle a lot easier, or it can vanish into one. Make a few decisions up front and it'll go further without leaving you short.

Spring in Farmington brings two things like clockwork. The first warm weekend, and a refund landing in the bank account. For plenty of families in St. Francois County, that refund is the push to finally replace the car with the check engine light, or the truck that needs tires, a battery and a prayer every morning.

Putting a refund toward a vehicle can be a smart move. It goes sideways when every dollar goes in and there's nothing left for the water heater that quits in May. We'll walk through how a refund fits into a purchase. Just know we're a car store, not your tax preparer. The details of your budget are something to sit down and go over with our finance team.

Quick answer: A tax refund goes furthest as part of a down payment, along with any equity in your trade, because it lowers how much you finance. Get pre approved first so you know where you stand, then look at new, used and Ford Blue Advantage certified to find what fits the budget. Keep some of the refund in savings so a surprise bill doesn't turn into a missed payment.

Down payment

Refund plus trade equity lowers the amount financed

Before you shop

Credit application and trade value online

Keep in reserve

A cushion for repairs and life's surprises

How Does a Tax Refund Help as a Down Payment?

A down payment is the cash you put toward the vehicle at signing. Every bit of it comes off what you borrow. A smaller loan generally means a smaller monthly payment and less interest over the life of the loan. Or you can keep the payment and be done sooner.

It can help with approval, too. Lenders compare what you're borrowing with what the vehicle's worth, and money down narrows that gap. That can make a lender more comfortable, especially if your credit has a few bumps.

There's no magic number. The right amount depends on your income, your other bills, the vehicle and the loan terms you qualify for. Our finance team can show you how different down payments change things on a specific vehicle.

Couple carrying a kayak from a Ford Bronco parked at a mountain lake, a weekend SUV for Farmington MO buyers

What Is Trade Equity and How Does It Stack With a Refund?

The vehicle you've got now may be worth more than you owe on it. That difference is equity, and it spends just like cash on your next one. Put a refund and solid trade equity together and the down payment adds up fast without touching your savings.

It can go the other way, too. Owe more than it's worth and you've got negative equity. That balance doesn't disappear when you trade. A refund is a good way to knock some or all of it out instead of rolling it into the next loan.

How do you find out what your trade is worth?

Start with Get Your Trade Offer to see a value online, then bring it in for a quick inspection and appraisal. We'll look at any make in any condition, and leased or financed vehicles are fine to talk about too. You don't have to buy from us to get an offer.

Farmington driver tip

Before you come in, get your payoff amount from your lender and grab both keys and any service records. A clean stack of oil change receipts and that second key help the appraisal. Having the payoff in hand keeps the trade math honest.

Why Get Pre Approved Before You Shop?

Pre approval tells you what you can comfortably finance before you fall in love with something on the lot. It also speeds things up, since the finance team already has what they need to look for loan options when you sit down.

You can fill out the online credit application from your couch. From there the Finance Center goes over options with you, whether your credit's strong, rebuilding or somewhere in between.

1

Know your monthly comfort zone

Figure out what payment fits once the house payment, utilities, insurance and groceries are covered. Bring that number with you.

2

Apply online

Submit the credit application so the finance team can start working before you arrive.

3

Value your trade

Get an online trade value and plan for a short appraisal at the store.

4

Decide how much of the refund to use

Set aside a cushion first, then put the rest toward the down payment.

Set aside a cushion first, then put the rest toward the down payment.

Should You Buy New, Used or Certified?

A refund works with any of these.

  • New Ford: the latest technology and full factory coverage, plus Warranty Forever at Sam Scism Ford. Ford manufacturer incentives change through the year and may help, so check current offers before you decide.
  • Used vehicle: often the easiest on the budget. Most used vehicles sold at Sam Scism Ford qualify for Warranty Forever too, so ask about the one you're looking at.
  • Ford Blue Advantage certified: a middle ground. Gold Certified covers Ford models up to six years old with under 80,000 miles, passes a 172 point inspection, and includes a 12 month/12,000 mile comprehensive limited warranty and a 7 year/100,000 mile powertrain limited warranty. Blue Certified covers any make up to ten years old with under 150,000 miles, with a 139 point inspection and a 90 day/4,000 mile comprehensive limited warranty.

Both certified tiers include a 14 day/1,000 mile money back guarantee, roadside assistance and a CARFAX vehicle history report. Learn more on our Ford Blue Advantage page.

Shop New Ford InventoryShop Used Inventory

Gray Ford F-150 STX SuperCrew pickup, front three quarter view, a popular truck for Farmington MO shoppers

How Much of Your Refund Should You Keep in Reserve?

People skip this step and then wish they hadn't. A vehicle loan is a monthly commitment for years. Put every dollar of the refund into the down payment, get hit with a big bill a month later, and that payment gets a lot harder to make.

We won't tell you how much to keep. That's your household's call. A rule of thumb a lot of people use is simple. Set aside a cushion first, then put the rest toward the down payment. Enough to cover a furnace repair or a month of short hours is a common target.

Watch out for these

Stretching the term to fit the payment. A longer loan lowers the monthly number but can mean more interest and more time owing more than the vehicle is worth.

Forgetting insurance. A newer vehicle can cost more to insure. Get a quote on that exact vehicle before you sign.

Spending the whole refund. An empty savings account makes every surprise bill a crisis. Keep a reserve.

If you'd rather talk it through in person, come see us at 5019 Flat River Road. Sales is open 8 AM to 6 PM Monday through Friday and 9 AM to 5 PM Saturday, or call 573-430-1687.

Warranty Forever

Warranty Forever comes at no charge on every new Ford and most used vehicles sold at Sam Scism Ford. It covers listed engine, transmission and drive axle parts for as long as you own the vehicle, regardless of miles, when you follow the customary maintenance and keep records. See the dealer for details.

How it works

Using a Refund to Buy

Can I use my tax refund as a down payment on a car?

Sure. A refund spends like any other cash at signing, and every dollar comes off what you finance. Ask the finance office ahead of time which payment forms they take.

Is it smart to put my whole refund into a vehicle?

That depends on your savings and your other bills. Many buyers keep part of it in reserve for emergencies and use the rest as a down payment.

Can I shop before my refund arrives?

You can apply for credit, value your trade and pick out a vehicle ahead of time. Talk with the finance team about timing so the down payment is ready when you sign.

Down Payments and Equity

Does a bigger down payment lower my monthly payment?

Generally, putting more down reduces the amount you borrow, which lowers the payment or shortens the loan. The finance team can show you side by side scenarios on a specific vehicle.

What if I owe more on my car than it's worth?

That gap is negative equity. A refund can help cover it so you're not dragging old debt into a new loan.

Do I have to buy a car from you to sell you mine?

Buying isn't required. Start with Get Your Trade Offer online, then bring the vehicle in for an appraisal.

Financing and Pre Approval

How do I get pre approved at Sam Scism Ford?

Fill out the credit application on our website, and the Finance Center will reach out with options. It saves time at the store.

Can I get financing with less than perfect credit?

Our finance team can review options for many credit situations. A down payment from your refund can help.

Should I talk to my tax preparer before buying?

If you've got questions about your refund or taxes, your preparer is the right person to ask. Our team handles the vehicle and the financing side.

New, Used and Certified

What is the difference between Gold and Blue Certified?

Gold Certified is for Ford models up to six years old with under 80,000 miles and adds a 7 year/100,000 mile powertrain limited warranty. Blue Certified covers any make up to ten years old with under 150,000 miles and comes with a 90 day/4,000 mile comprehensive limited warranty.

Do used vehicles get Warranty Forever?

Most used vehicles sold at Sam Scism Ford qualify, and every new Ford does. Ask about the one you're looking at.

Are there Ford incentives this spring?

Manufacturer offers change month to month. Check our current specials page or ask the sales team what applies to the model you want.

Visiting the Store

What should I bring to buy a vehicle?

Bring your driver's license, proof of insurance, your down payment, and your trade's title or payoff information along with both keys.

Can I order a new Ford if the one I want isn't in stock?

We can place a custom factory order. Ford doesn't charge extra for orders, and incentives can apply at order or at delivery, whichever you choose.

When is the sales department open?

Sales is open 8 AM to 6 PM Monday through Friday and 9 AM to 5 PM on Saturday. Call 573-430-1687 to set up a time.

Talk numbers with Finance

See loan options and how your down payment changes them.

Finance Center

Current Ford offers

See manufacturer specials before you pick a vehicle.

View Specials
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Close up of a Ford key fob passing from one hand to another, selling your car in Farmington MO

Selling Your Car to Sam Scism Ford, Even If You're Not Buying

Buying  |  Farmington, MO You don't have to be shopping to sell us your car. Start online, finish with an appraisal at the store, and walk out with an offer on any make, Ford or not. Plenty of people around St. Francois County end up with a vehicle they don't need. Maybe the kids moved out and the third car just sits, or you inherited a truck, or you bought something new elsewhere and kept the old one too long. Sam Scism Ford buys cars, trucks and SUVs outright. No purchase required, any make or condition. The process is short, and knowing what to bring makes it shorter. Quick answer: Sam Scism Ford will buy your vehicle whether or not you buy one from us. Get a starting value online, then bring the vehicle to 5019 Flat River Road for an inspection and appraisal, along with every key, the title or payoff information, registration and a photo ID. A private sale often brings more money but takes longer and puts the paperwork, the strangers and the lender on you. Purchase required No, we buy outright What we buy Any make, model or condition Where 5019 Flat River Road, Farmington In this post Selling without buying How the online offer works The in store appraisal What to bring and payoffs Private sale or dealer sale Can You Sell Your Car to Sam Scism Ford Without Buying One? You can. Most people think of a dealer appraisal as part of a trade, but we also buy vehicles on their own. We're always adding to our pre owned inventory, and cars that come from local owners are a big part of it. It doesn't need to be a Ford. Chevys, Toyotas, Hondas, a Jeep with a lift on it, a minivan with a cracked windshield. The sell your car page says we buy any make, model or condition, and we mean it. You came in to sell, so that's the conversation. If you decide later that you want something else, the offer can go toward that instead. How Does the Online Offer Work? Start with the Value Your Trade tool. You'll describe the vehicle and its condition, and you get a starting value without leaving the house. Treat that number as a starting point. Nobody has seen the car yet. The online value assumes the condition you describe is the condition we'll find, so be straight about the warning light, the dent in the tailgate and the tires that are nearly bald. A careful description gets you a number that holds up. The final figure comes from an in person look. That's true at every dealer, and it protects both sides. Value Your Car Online Browse Used Inventory What Happens During the In Store Appraisal? 1 Bring it in during sales hours Monday through Friday 8 AM to 6 PM, Saturday 9 AM to 5 PM. Calling ahead at 573-430-1687 helps us have someone ready. 2 Walk around and inspection Our team looks over the body, glass, tires, interior and under the hood, and notes any warning lights or leaks. 3 How it runs and what it's worth here Expect a short drive to hear and feel how it runs. The value also depends on what similar vehicles are bringing in this market. 4 You get a firm offer We explain how we got there. Take it, think it over or walk away with no hard feelings. A little prep goes a long way. Clean out your stuff, run it through a car wash and bring service records if you have them. You don't need to fix dents or replace tires first, since those repairs rarely pay back what they cost. What Documents Should You Bring to Sell Your Car? This list comes straight from our sell page, and having all of it with you is the difference between a quick visit and a second trip. The vehicle and every key and remote: spare fobs add value and cost money to replace. The owner's manual: if it's still in the glove box, leave it there. A valid state issued photo ID for each person selling. Title, or loan payoff information if a lender still holds it. Current registration. What if you still owe money on it? That's common and it doesn't stop a sale. Call your lender for a payoff amount before you come in. It's often a little different from the balance on your last statement because of interest and any payoff fees. When we buy the car, we pay the lender and the lender releases the title. If our offer is more than the payoff, the difference is yours. If you owe more than the car is worth, you'd need to cover the gap, and we'll show you the math plainly before anything is signed. Leased vehicles take one more step, because the leasing company owns the car. Bring your lease paperwork and our team will walk through the buyout numbers with you. Is a Private Sale or a Dealer Sale Right for You? An honest answer is that a private sale usually brings more money. Edmunds puts it simply: you cut out the middleman, so you keep more. You also pick who buys it, which matters to some folks selling a car they loved. The cost is your time. You take the photos, write the ad, answer messages at 10 PM, meet strangers for test drives and handle the title and payment yourself. Edmunds notes it can take weeks or months. If there's a loan on it, the buyer has to trust that the lender will release the title after they pay, and plenty of private buyers won't. Fits you if Selling to Sam Scism Ford You want it done in one visit There's a loan or lease to pay off The car needs work a private buyer would balk at You'd rather not meet strangers or handle the title yourself Fits you if Selling it yourself You can wait weeks for the right buyer The title is clear and in your hand The car is clean and in demand You're comfortable handling payment and paperwork Farmington driver tip If you list privately, meet buyers somewhere public and busy in daylight, and don't sign over the title until the money has cleared your bank. Get our offer first either way so you know your floor. Warranty Forever If you do decide to replace it, every new Ford and most used vehicles sold at Sam Scism Ford come with Warranty Forever at no charge. It covers listed engine, transmission and drive axle parts for as long as you own the vehicle, regardless of miles, with no deductible, as long as you follow the customary maintenance in the agreement and keep records. See the dealer for details. How it works Selling Basics Will Sam Scism Ford buy my car if I'm not shopping for another one? + We buy vehicles outright with no purchase required. You leave with an offer either way. Do you only buy Fords? + Any make and model is welcome, from imports to other domestic brands. What matters is the vehicle's condition and what it's worth in this market. Will you buy a car that needs repairs? + Our sell page says any condition, and that includes mechanical problems and body damage. Mention the issues up front so the online value is closer to the final offer. The Online Offer Is the online value my final offer? + It's a starting number based on how you describe the vehicle. The firm offer comes after our team inspects and drives it. Why can the appraisal come in different from the online value? + Things a form can't capture, like tire wear, warning lights, odors or a rough shift, show up in person. Accurate details online keep the gap small. Can I check my car's value without visiting? + The Value Your Trade tool on our site gives you a starting value from home. Come in when you're ready for a firm number. The Appraisal Visit When can I bring my car in for an appraisal? + During sales hours, Monday through Friday 8 AM to 6 PM and Saturday 9 AM to 5 PM. A call to 573-430-1687 first helps us have an appraiser free. Should I get my car detailed before selling it? + A wash and a cleaned out interior help, and a full detail usually isn't needed. Skip big repairs, since they rarely pay for themselves. What do appraisers look at? + Body, glass, tires, interior, warning lights, how it drives, vehicle history and local demand. Service records help show it was cared for. Titles and Payoffs What if my bank has the title? + Bring your loan payoff information instead. We pay the lender directly and the lender releases the title. How do I get my payoff amount? + Call your lender or check its website for a payoff quote. That figure can differ from your statement balance. What if I lost a key or remote? + Bring the ones you have. A missing key can lower the offer a bit since we'd have to replace it. Private Sale or Dealer Will I make more selling privately? + Often, according to Edmunds, but the sale can take weeks and you handle the ads, test drives and paperwork. Getting our offer first gives you a number to compare against. Can I sell privately if I still have a loan? + It's possible but harder, because ownership can't transfer until the lender releases the lien. Many private buyers won't wait on that. Does Sam Scism Ford sell the cars it buys? + Many of them end up in our used inventory, which is part of why we buy any make. You can browse the lot on our used vehicle pages. Ready to sell See how selling your car to Sam Scism Ford works. Sell Your Car Talk to us first Reach the sales team at 573-430-1687 or send a message. Contact Us

Woman smiling at her phone at home with a red Ford Bronco parked outside the window, Ford app use in Farmington MO

The Ford App and Connected Services: A Farmington Owner's Guide

Ownership  |  Farmington, MO The Ford app can start your truck from the kitchen, warn you about a low tire, and book your next oil change. Some of it's included and some of it's a paid plan, so it helps to know which is which. July in Farmington means getting into a truck that has been sitting in the sun at the ballfield or the job site. Starting it from your phone a few minutes early and letting the AC run is one of those small things you stop thinking about once you've had it. That is one piece of the Ford app. It also keeps an eye on your vehicle's health, reminds you when maintenance is due, lets you book service, and manages the software updates Ford sends over the air. A lot of owners we talk to use one or two features and have never opened the rest, so this post walks through what the app does and what costs extra. Quick answer: The Ford app is free, and on Fords with an activated embedded modem it includes remote start, locking and unlocking, vehicle location, health alerts and service scheduling at no charge. Extras like the Wi-Fi hotspot, Connected Navigation and streaming come in the Ford Connectivity Package, which is included for a set period on many newer models and is a paid plan after that. App cost Free download, iOS and Android Included on equipped Fords Remote start, lock, location, health alerts Paid after any trial Connectivity Package, Security Package In this post Getting started Remote start, lock and location Health alerts and service Included vs. paid plans Ford Power-Up updates Getting help What Do You Need to Use the Ford App? The app itself is a free download from the App Store or Google Play. After you create an account, you add your vehicle by VIN. For remote features to work, your Ford needs an embedded modem, the modem has to be activated and connected to your account, and the vehicle needs SYNC or the Ford Digital Experience. Most recent Fords have the modem. Older models and some base trims may not, and remote start and remote locking aren't standard on every vehicle. If the app doesn't show the connect option for your Ford, our team can check what your VIN supports. Farmington driver tip Do the setup while your Ford is parked outside with a good cell signal, not in a metal shed or a back pasture. Ford notes the vehicle connection can take up to two minutes, and a weak signal around the hills south of town can slow it down. What Can You Control Remotely With the Ford App? On an equipped Ford, the app handles remote start and stop, locking and unlocking, and GPS location. Ford's own support page says remote features are complimentary with the app, so there's no plan to buy for the basics. You can also see fuel level and other vehicle stats, and on models with Phone As A Key, your phone can stand in for the key fob. The redesign in late 2025 added remote comfort controls on equipped vehicles. You can set the cabin temperature, turn on heated or ventilated seats and warm the steering wheel before you get in. In July that means a cool cabin. In January it means a clear windshield. Doors and hood: remote start needs the hood, doors and liftgate or tailgate closed. Check Engine Light: any cause behind it has to be fixed before remote start will work. Key fob: you still need the fob in the vehicle to shift into Drive, unless it has Phone As A Key. Transmission and locks: remote features require an automatic transmission and power locks. Ford's own support page says remote features are complimentary with the app, so there's no plan to buy for the basics. How Do Vehicle Health Alerts and Service Scheduling Work? Vehicle Health Alerts send information from your Ford to the app, things like low tire pressure, oil life and warning messages. The app also shows recall notifications and your service history, and it sends maintenance reminders as service comes due. When something needs attention, you can schedule service right from the app and add a note about what you're seeing. If the alert is a warning light you don't recognize, call the service desk at 573-430-1693 and an advisor can tell you whether it's safe to keep driving. Health alerts don't replace an inspection. They tell you what the vehicle's sensors can see. A technician looking at brakes, belts and suspension on a lift catches the things no sensor reports. Schedule Service Ford App Details Which Ford Connected Services Are Included and Which Need a Plan? This is where most of the confusion comes from. The core app features above are included on equipped vehicles. Two packages work differently. Ford Connectivity Package This covers an unlimited Wi-Fi hotspot, Connected Navigation with live traffic, audio and video streaming, and a voice assistant, with the mix depending on the model and trim. On 2026 models such as the F-150, Super Duty, Maverick, Bronco, Explorer and Expedition, Ford includes it for a year, and after that it continues as a monthly, annual or one time paid plan. You manage it in the app. Ford Security Package This adds theft alerts, Stolen Vehicle Services with live agents who work with law enforcement, and on select trucks a Start Inhibit feature that blocks the engine from starting. It comes with an included period on select newer Fords, then becomes a purchase. BlueCruise hands free driving is its own plan on equipped vehicles, with trial terms that vary. Prices and eligible models change, so check the Ford Connected Services page or ask us about your exact vehicle before you buy anything. What Are Ford Power-Up Software Updates? Ford Power-Up updates are software updates sent to your vehicle over the air, the same way your phone updates. They can refine existing features, fix bugs and sometimes add new capability. Wi-Fi gives the fastest download, and some updates can come through the vehicle's cellular connection. 1 Set a schedule Pick a recurring time for updates, such as overnight when the truck is parked in the driveway. You can manage the schedule in the vehicle and see reminders in the Ford app. 2 Watch for the reminder Your Ford gives a reminder before an update installs. Some updates need the vehicle parked with the ignition off, and you get a short window to cancel. 3 Let it finish Other updates install in the background while you drive. If one seems stuck or you think you missed one, bring it in and our technicians can check the software level. Our May post on checking your Ford for open recalls and software updates covers VIN lookups and recall repairs in detail, so we'll keep this part short. When the app shows an open recall, book it like any other appointment. How Can Sam Scism Ford Help You Set Up the Ford App? If you bought your Ford from us, ask during delivery and we'll help you add the vehicle and walk through remote start before you leave the lot. If you've had it a while and never set it up, stop by during sales hours, Monday through Friday 8 AM to 6 PM or Saturday 9 AM to 5 PM, and someone can sit down with you for a few minutes. You can also read more on our Ford app page. Once it's running, keep it updated on your phone so the newest features show up. Warranty Forever Every new Ford and most used vehicles sold at Sam Scism Ford come with Warranty Forever at no charge. It covers listed engine, transmission and drive axle parts for as long as you own the vehicle, regardless of miles, as long as you follow the customary maintenance and keep records. The Ford app's maintenance reminders make that easier. See the dealer for details. How it works Getting Started Is the Ford app free? + The app is a free download for iPhone and Android, and the core remote features are complimentary on equipped vehicles. Extras like the Connectivity Package are paid after any included period. Is FordPass the same as the Ford app? + Ford renamed FordPass the Ford app in October 2025 and redesigned it. Your account and vehicle carry over. Why can't I connect my Ford to the app? + Your vehicle needs an embedded modem that's activated, plus SYNC or the Ford Digital Experience. If the connect option never appears, call us and we'll check your VIN. Remote Features Can I remote start my Ford from my phone? + On equipped Fords with an automatic transmission and an activated modem, remote start is included in the app. The hood and doors need to be closed, and any Check Engine Light cause must be fixed first. Can I drive away after starting with the app? + You still need the key fob inside to shift into Drive unless your Ford has Phone As A Key. Can the app warm the seats and steering wheel? + The redesigned app added remote comfort controls for cabin temperature, heated or ventilated seats and a heated steering wheel on vehicles equipped with them. Health Alerts and Service What do Ford Vehicle Health Alerts show? + They pass along information from your vehicle, such as tire pressure, oil life and warning messages, along with recall notices and maintenance reminders. Can I book service at Sam Scism Ford in the app? + Schedule service through the app, online, or by calling 573-430-1693. Add a note about any alert so the advisor is ready when you arrive. Do app alerts replace regular inspections? + Alerts only report what sensors can measure. A multi point inspection still checks brakes, belts, hoses and suspension by hand. Plans and Subscriptions What is the Ford Connectivity Package? + It bundles an unlimited Wi-Fi hotspot, Connected Navigation, streaming and a voice assistant, depending on model and trim. Many 2026 Fords include it for one year before a paid plan starts. What does the Ford Security Package add? + Theft alerts, Stolen Vehicle Services and, on select trucks, Start Inhibit. It includes a trial period on select newer models. Where do I check current Connected Services terms? + Terms change, so check our Ford Connected Services page or the plans section of the app, and ask us if anything is unclear. Software Updates How do Ford Power-Up updates install? + They download over the air through Wi-Fi or the vehicle's cellular connection. Some install in the background and others need the vehicle parked with the ignition off. Can I choose when updates happen? + You can set a recurring update schedule, and the vehicle and app remind you before an install. Do I need Wi-Fi for Ford Power-Up updates? + Wi-Fi gives the fastest download, and some updates can also arrive over the vehicle's cellular connection. Full map updates come through Wi-Fi only. Help with the Ford app Stop by or send a message and we'll walk you through setup. Contact Us Alert on your dash Book a visit with our service team. Service Center

Gray four door Ford Bronco with its cloth roof on, parked on a dirt hill, weekend trips from Farmington MO

Ozark Weekend Trips From Farmington in Your Ford

Ownership  |  Farmington, MO Four state parks in the St. Francois Mountains sit close enough for a Saturday. This is how they differ, which Ford fits each one, and what to check before you head out. Memorial Day is behind us, school is letting out, and the weekends from here to Labor Day fill up fast. You don't have to drive far from Farmington to find granite boulders, Missouri's highest point, a river that pours through volcanic rock, or 2,000 acres of sand and trail. Each trip asks something different of a vehicle. A day at the Shut-Ins with three kids and a cooler is not the same as a Saturday in the St. Joe riding area. This guide walks through each park, the Ford that fits it, and the short list our service team would check before you load up. Quick answer: St. Joe State Park in Park Hills has a riding area of about 2,000 acres where four wheel drive vehicles are allowed only on the old mine tailings, with an ORV permit and a flag mast. Johnson's Shut-Ins, Elephant Rocks and Taum Sauk Mountain are paved road trips that suit any Ford, so pick by passengers, gear and how much trail you want. St. Joe riding area About 2,000 acres, ORV permit required Missouri's highest point Taum Sauk Mountain, 1,772 feet Tallest waterfall Mina Sauk Falls, 132 feet In this post St. Joe State Park riding area Shut-Ins, Elephant Rocks, Taum Sauk Which Ford fits which trip What to check before you go Get it checked first What Should You Know Before Riding at St. Joe State Park? St. Joe State Park covers 8,243 acres on the south side of Park Hills, a short drive up US 67 from our store. St. Joe Minerals shut down its operations in the area in 1972 and donated the land to the state, and the riding area sits on the old lead mine tailings. Missouri Mines State Historic Site is inside the park too, so the history is right there if half the group would rather see the mill buildings than the sand. The riding rules are specific, and park staff do enforce them. Dune buggies and four wheel drive vehicles are allowed only in the tailings area, not on the wooded trails. Any vehicle in the ORV area needs a permit, which you can buy online for up to three days of riding or pick up at the ORV contact station when you arrive. Flag mast: every vehicle other than a motorcycle needs a mast at least 72 inches long with an orange flag of at least 72 square inches. Seat belts: motorized vehicles other than motorcycles and ATVs need a seat belt for each occupant. Young drivers: operators under 16 and unlicensed operators must have direct supervision by a licensed adult. Staging area: the speed limit in the staging area and parking lot is 5 miles per hour. Helmet, noise and spark arrestor rules apply to certain vehicles as well, and the park posts temporary closures on its status map. Read the full riding rules on the Missouri State Parks site the week you go. The park also has four lakes, two with swimming beaches, so nobody has to ride to have a good day. How Do Johnson's Shut-Ins, Elephant Rocks and Taum Sauk Compare? These three are paved road trips, and they make a natural loop. MO 221 runs from US 67 at Farmington through Doe Run to MO 21 at Pilot Knob, which puts you in the Arcadia Valley without fighting St. Louis traffic. Elephant Rocks State Park On Highway 21 in Belleview, Elephant Rocks is a field of giant granite boulders formed from rock about 1.5 billion years old. Kids climb all over them. The Braille Trail through the main rock area was designed for people with visual and physical disabilities, so grandparents can come along, and picnic tables sit in the shade. Taum Sauk Mountain State Park Taum Sauk Mountain rises to 1,772 feet, the highest point in Missouri, and the walk from the parking lot to the summit is short. The bigger payoff is Mina Sauk Falls, which drops 132 feet and is the tallest waterfall in the state. That trail is moderately rugged, and the falls are fullest after a good rain. Johnson's Shut-Ins State Park In Reynolds County, the East Fork of the Black River squeezes through hard volcanic rock and spills over and around it in chutes and pools. The park was wrecked by the Taum Sauk reservoir failure in December 2005 and reopened the river to swimmers in 2009, with a new campground the year after. Hot summer weekends can draw a crowd, so an early start pays off. Farmington driver tip Bare granite soaks up summer sun, so plan Elephant Rocks for the morning before the boulders heat up, then head to Taum Sauk or the Shut-Ins after lunch. Pack more water than you think you'll need. Which Ford Fits Which Ozark Trip? Any Ford in good shape will get you to Elephant Rocks and back. The choice gets more interesting when you add sand, a trailer or a third row of passengers. Ford Bronco: the one for the St. Joe tailings and for open air summer driving. The roof and doors come off, G.O.A.T. Modes adjust the drive system for the surface, and the Sasquatch Package is available for more clearance and bigger tires. Ford Bronco Sport: a smaller SUV that still handles gravel and park roads with ease. The Badlands version adds the 2.0L EcoBoost, Advanced 4x4 with a twin clutch rear drive unit, seven G.O.A.T. Modes including Rock Crawl, and a steel skid plate under the engine. Ford F-150: the hauler. If your weekend means trailering an ATV or side by side to St. Joe, the truck does the towing while the toy does the riding, and Pro Trailer Backup Assist is available on many trims. Ford Expedition: the family shuttle to the Shut-Ins. It seats up to eight, the Split Gate makes loading coolers and chairs easier, and the Tremor version adds 33 inch all terrain tires and an electronic locking rear differential for rougher roads. Any Ford in good shape will get you to Elephant Rocks and back. We cover trailer setup in detail in our lake towing post from last May, so we won't repeat it here. For the St. Joe trip, the short version is to check the hitch, the trailer lights and the tie downs before you leave the driveway. Shop Ford Bronco Explore Ford Bronco Sport What Should You Check on Your Ford Before an Ozark Weekend? Most trip problems start with something small you could have caught in the driveway. Give it ten minutes the night before. 1 Tires and the spare Check pressure cold, look for cuts or bulges on the sidewalls, and confirm the spare has air. Gravel park roads are rough on tires that were already marginal. 2 Fluids and wipers Check oil, coolant and washer fluid. Late May storms roll through fast in the St. Francois Mountains, and you want wipers that clear the glass. 3 Warning lights and messages If a warning light is on, have it looked at before the trip, not after. The Ford app shows vehicle health alerts on many newer models. 4 Trail and trailer gear For St. Joe, pack the flag mast, the permit and a tow strap, and know where your recovery points are. For a trailer, test every light with a helper. After a day in the sand, rinse the underbody and wheel wells and keep an eye on your engine air filter. Fine sand and dust work their way into places you don't see, and a quick wash on Sunday evening keeps it from sitting there all summer. When Should You Bring Your Ford in Before a Trip? If the oil life monitor is getting low, the tires are close to worn out, or something has felt off lately, get it in a week or two ahead of a big weekend. That leaves time to order a part if one is needed. Our service center is open Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, closed for lunch from noon to 1:00 PM. Book online, in the Ford app, or call 573-430-1693. For routine items like an oil change, tire rotation or battery, Ford Mobile Service may be able to come to your home or job, depending on distance and availability. A little prep keeps the drive home as easy as the drive down. Warranty Forever Every new Ford and most used vehicles sold at Sam Scism Ford come with Warranty Forever at no charge. It covers listed engine, transmission and drive axle parts for as long as you own the vehicle, regardless of miles, as long as you follow the customary maintenance and keep records. See the dealer for details. How it works St. Joe State Park Riding Can I drive my Ford Bronco in the St. Joe State Park riding area? + Four wheel drive vehicles are allowed in the tailings area of the riding area, not on the wooded trails. You need an ORV permit and a flag mast at least 72 inches tall with an orange flag. Where do I get an ORV permit for St. Joe State Park? + Missouri State Parks sells permits online for up to three days of riding, and the ORV contact station at the park sells them on arrival. Carry the permit whenever you are in the riding area. How big is the St. Joe State Park riding area? + The park covers 8,243 acres, and about 2,000 of those are set aside for off road vehicles on the old lead mine tailings. The Arcadia Valley Parks What is the highest point in Missouri? + Taum Sauk Mountain, at 1,772 feet. The walk from the parking lot to the summit marker is short, and Mina Sauk Falls is on a separate, rougher trail in the same park. Is Elephant Rocks a good stop with young kids or older relatives? + It works well for both. The boulders are fun to climb, and the Braille Trail through the main rock area was built for people with visual and physical disabilities. Can you swim at Johnson's Shut-Ins? + The shut-ins on the East Fork of the Black River reopened for water recreation in 2009 after the 2005 reservoir flood. Check the park's current conditions before you go, since high water can change things fast. Choosing the Right Ford Do I need four wheel drive to visit these parks? + Not for Elephant Rocks, Taum Sauk or Johnson's Shut-Ins, which you reach on paved roads. Four wheel drive matters if you plan to ride the St. Joe tailings. Is the Ford Bronco Sport capable enough for gravel park roads? + A Ford Bronco Sport handles gravel and park roads well, and the Badlands version adds Advanced 4x4 with a twin clutch rear drive unit and a Rock Crawl mode. Which Ford works for a big family heading to the Shut-Ins? + The Ford Expedition seats up to eight and has the Split Gate for loading coolers and chairs. Our sales team at 573-430-1687 can show you what is on the lot. Trip Prep and Care What should I check on my Ford before a weekend trip? + Tire pressure and the spare, oil and coolant, wipers and washer fluid, and any warning lights. If you are trailering, test the trailer lights with a helper. Should I wash my Ford after riding at St. Joe? + Rinse the underbody, wheel wells and brakes after a day on sand or dusty tailings. Fine grit holds moisture and wears parts if it sits. Does trail driving affect my engine air filter? + Dusty and sandy driving clogs an air filter faster, and Ford recommends changing it sooner when you drive on dirt roads. Have it checked at your next visit. Service and Coverage How far ahead should I book service before a trip? + A week or two gives our team time to order a part if the inspection turns something up. Book online, in the Ford app, or at 573-430-1693. Can Ford Mobile Service come to me before a weekend? + Ford Mobile Service can handle oil changes, tire rotations, batteries and other routine work at your home or job, depending on distance and availability. Does Warranty Forever cover my Ford on trail trips? + Warranty Forever covers listed powertrain parts for as long as you own the vehicle, provided you keep up the customary maintenance and records. Ask our team how it applies to your vehicle and how you use it. Prep for the weekend Book a check before your next Ozark trip. Schedule Service Gear up for the next trip Browse new Ford SUVs and trucks in stock. Shop New Inventory