A road trip is exciting, and planning is important. You plan where to stop for gas, where to for lodging, and the places to get the perfect Instagram shot. Planning your Ford maintenance is also important, as you want peace of mind that your vehicle is in great shape so you can enjoy every minute of the experience. As your Ford dealer, we’d like to recommend some essential maintenance before you head out on the open road.
Check Your Battery
The battery provides the electrical charge that causes your engine to crank and start combustion. On average, a battery lasts three to five years before it wears out and needs replacement. This failure is caused by the breakdown of the battery chemicals. As the chemicals break down, the battery’s storage capacity drops, and eventually, it can’t supply enough power to start your engine.
If your battery is new, you can skip this piece of advice. If you have an older battery, we recommend a battery test. We’ll hook your battery to our computerized battery tester. This machine subjects your battery to a range of tests that will identify its remaining strengths and potential weaknesses. If your battery is weak, we can replace it while you wait.
Fluid Checks
Your Ford has six major fluids, each of which plays an important role in your vehicle’s health and performance. These fluids are oil, transmission fluid, coolant, power steering fluid, brake fluid, and windshield wiper fluid. Each fluid has a particular level that ensures there’s sufficient fluid to work effectively.
A fluid test involves our technicians checking each fluid’s condition and replacing it if necessary. Older fluids lose many of their capabilities, making them inefficient or capable of damaging your vehicle. Old coolant, for example, becomes corrosive and can damage parts of the cooling system. If a fluid has a filter, like oil and transmission fluid, we’ll replace the relevant filter during this check.
Tire Checks
Tire tread is designed to grip the surface, enabling you to drive and brake safely. Over time, the tread wears down due to surface friction, increasing your stopping distance and decreasing braking response. In addition, your tire rubber loses flexibility as it ages, causing cracks to appear. Cracks will expand and cause leaks if they penetrate deep enough into the tire.
Our technicians will carefully examine your tires. If they’re healthy, you’re ready to hit the road. If your tires are worn or damaged, we can replace them so you can drive safely.
If you’d like to know more about services or are ready to book a service, contact us today at Joe Mahan Ford Inc. in Paris, TN.
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