Credit Card News
Ford Launches Updated Rewards Credit Card with Bread Financial
Ford is partnering with Bread Financial to debut a new rewards credit card for vehicle owners.
About the Ford Rewards Credit Card:
Michigan-based automaker Ford has just unveiled its new Ford Rewards Visa Signature Card. With this new offering, customers can earn Ford Rewards points on a variety of everyday purchases as well as increase their Ford Rewards status.
First, Ford Rewards credit cardholders can earn a total of up to 16 points per dollar spent at Ford dealership service and Ford.com purchases (such as parts, accessories, and connected services). That includes 6x points from the card and 10x points as a Ford Rewards Member.
Beyond that, the card also earns 6x points at grocery stores, 6x points at restaurants, and 6x points at gas and EV charging stations. Plus, that 6x category extends to auto insurance, tolls, and parking. All other purchases earn 2x points. These Ford Rewards points can then be redeemed at a value of 0.5¢ each toward products and service purchases at Ford dealerships.
Using the Ford Reward card, customers also have fast tracks to higher Ford Rewards status. Cardholders who use their card for at least one purchase in a calendar year can earn 2 Tier Activities, bumping them up from Bronze to Silver status. Then, those who spend at least $25,000 on the card in a calendar year can advance to the top-tier Blue Status. With increased status, members can earn even more Ford Service Points as well as fuel savings at Shell stations.
To mark the launch of the card, Ford is also offering a special welcome bonus. Currently, new cardholders can earn 15,000 Ford Rewards points (worth up to $75) when they make at least one purchase with the card within their first 90 days. On top of that, they can earn a $100 statement credit after spending at least $1,500 in the first 90 days.
The Ford Rewards Visa Signature Card from Bread Financial has no annual fee. Cardholders can also choose from four card design options, featuring iconic Ford logos and taglines.
Previously, Ford offered a FordPass Rewards Visa Card issued by First National Bank of Omaha (FNBO). That card was discontinued last year.
What They’re Saying:
Announcing the new card option, Ford Motor Company’s director of rewards & loyalty Beth Leverton said, “At Ford, we are always looking for ways to enhance the ownership experience for our customers and earn their loyalty, Bread Financial’s flexible payment options align with our vision to put customers at the center and empower them with greater financial freedom, while strengthening our promise to deliver quality, convenience and value.”
My Thoughts:
As someone who owns a Ford vehicle… I still don’t see much use in this card. While numbers like 16x and even 6x seem great, the value of these points is half of what you might expect — and those points can only be used toward Ford purchases. Additionally, although it’s kind of cool that you can gain increased status so easily, I don’t exactly see a whole lot of benefits that come with that status.
I suppose if you’re a big card person who’s spending a lot on Ford services and accessories, this could be a good option. But if you’re looking for 3% back — in real cashback that’s far more flexible — at restaurants and grocery stores, I’d recommend something like the Capital One Savor card instead. Then, you can always earmark that cashback for whatever vehicle enhancements or maintenance expenses you want.