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Summer heat puts real stress on your vehicle. From scorching pavement to long road trips and stop-and-go traffic, the warmer months can take a toll on even the most reliable Ford. Staying on top of Ford maintenance before and during the summer season helps you avoid unexpected breakdowns and keeps your ride performing at its best. The combination of heat and humidity makes seasonal upkeep more important than ever. If you drive a Ford F-150, a Ford Explorer, or a Ford Bronco, a few proactive steps can save you a lot of trouble down the road. Check Your Cooling System One of the most critical things to watch during summer is your cooling system. High temperatures cause your engine to work harder, and if your coolant levels are low or your radiator isn't functioning properly, overheating becomes a real risk. Have your coolant flushed and refilled according to your owner's manual schedule. Also inspect hoses and belts for cracks, swelling, or any signs of wear. These components can degrade faster in extreme heat and are worth checking before summer kicks into full gear. Inspect Your Tires Hot pavement raises tire pressure, which can increase your risk of a blowout if your tires are already overinflated or worn. As part of your summer car care routine, check tire pressure at least once a month and always when tires are cold for an accurate reading. Also look at your tread depth and overall tire condition. Uneven wear could point to alignment or suspension issues that are worth addressing before a long summer drive. Rotating your tires regularly extends their life and keeps handling consistent. Test Your Battery and Electrical System Extreme heat is actually harder on car batteries than cold weather. Heat accelerates the chemical reactions inside a battery, which can shorten its lifespan significantly. If your battery is more than three years old, have it tested. Your Ford's electrical system including the air conditioning compressor works overtime during summer months. A weak battery combined with heavy A/C use is a common recipe for getting stranded. A quick test at your local service center can tell you whether your battery is still holding a strong charge. Change Your Fluids and Filters Ford summer car care isn't complete without a look at your fluids and filters. Engine oil, brake fluid, transmission fluid, and power steering fluid all play a role in keeping your vehicle running smoothly. Heat causes fluids to break down faster, so staying current on your service intervals is especially important in summer. Your cabin air filter and engine air filter should also be checked. A clogged filter reduces airflow and makes your A/C system and engine work harder, which can hurt both comfort and fuel efficiency. Use Ford Mobile Service and Ford Pickup and Delivery Ford makes it easy to stay on top of maintenance without rearranging your schedule. Ford Mobile Service (where available) allows certified technicians to perform many routine services at your home or workplace. Ford Pickup and Delivery (where available) lets you hand off your vehicle from a location that's convenient for you. These options make it simple to keep your Ford in top shape all summer long without disrupting your day. Trust Auffenberg Ford North With Your Ford Staying ahead of Ford maintenance during the summer months protects your car and keeps you and your passengers safe on every drive. From cooling system checks to tire inspections and fluid changes, a little preparation goes a long way. Drivers throughout O'Fallon, Illinois, can count on certified Ford service from Auffenberg Ford North to handle all their Ford summer car care needs. Schedule your appointment today and head into the season with confidence.

Summer is the ideal time to pack your vehicle and explore the open road. From heading to the lake to crossing state lines, proper preparation ensures a smooth journey. Preparing your vehicle prevents small issues from becoming major headaches far from home. For personalized assistance and to guarantee your vehicle is ready, reach out to the experts at Auffenberg Ford North in O'Fallon. more Check Your Ford's Fluid Levels Before You Leave A thorough fluid check is vital for summer road trips. Ensure your engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, and windshield washer fluid sit at proper levels before leaving. Summer heat stresses your engine and cooling system. Low coolant causes overheating during long highway stretches. If you drive a model with a 2.0L or 3.5L engine, clean oil remains especially critical. Complete any due oil changes prior to departure. Inspect Your Tires for Summer Driving Conditions Tires act as your primary defense on the road. Hot pavement causes underinflated tires to wear unevenly or blow out. Check the pressure on all four tires and the spare before leaving. The tire placard inside the driver's door lists the correct pressure rating for your specific Ford model. Inspect the tread depth to ensure it remains above 2/32" for safe driving. Have a professional review any worn or cracked tires. Make the Most of Ford's Technology Features on the Road Modern Ford vehicles feature technology designed to ease long drives. Driver-assist features maintain your alertness during extended highway travel. Systems like Apple CarPlay© and Android Auto© keep you connected and entertained. The Ford Connectivity Package provides a Wi-Fi hotspot, navigation, and media streaming. These integrated tools transform a basic drive into an exceptional trip. Pack Smart and Load Your Ford the Right Way Vehicle loading significantly impacts handling, braking, and fuel efficiency. Avoid overloading your Ford beyond its payload capacity. Consult your owner's manual for exact weight limits. Place heavy items low and centered in the cargo area. Pack a compact roadside emergency kit containing a first aid kit, jumper cables, a flashlight, and basic tools to handle unexpected situations efficiently. Schedule a Pre-Trip Service Visit A pre-trip service appointment provides ultimate peace of mind. Ford Mobile Service handles many routine maintenance tasks at your home or workplace. A quick multi-point inspection confirms your brakes, belts, and filters remain ready for the miles ahead. Proper preparation guarantees safe and enjoyable summer travels. Stop by Auffenberg Ford North in O'Fallon, IL to let our expert team prepare your vehicle for your next adventure.

Towing a travel trailer is not just about big numbers. It is about control, stability, and choosing a truck that matches what you plan to pull. The 2026 Ford lineup covers a wide range, from light-duty setups to serious heavy hauling. Around O’Fallon, Missouri, that means you can find something that fits your trailer without overbuying or coming up short. more Start With the Right Capacity, Not Just the Biggest Number Towing capacity matters, but matching the truck to your trailer matters more. Ford builds its trucks with different roles in mind, which makes it easier to find the right fit. The 2026 Ford F-150® can tow up to 13,500 lbs. when properly equipped. That is more than enough for most travel trailers, especially in the mid-size range. Step up to the 2026 Ford Super Duty® lineup, and you are looking at towing capabilities exceeding 40,000 lbs. when properly equipped, which is where larger trailers and fifth-wheel setups come into play. Knowing your trailer weight, including gear, is the first step. From there, it becomes much easier to choose the right truck. Towing Tech That Makes a Difference Ford does not just rely on engine output. The technology built into these trucks makes towing easier, especially if you are not doing it every day. Ford Co-Pilot360™ adds driver assistance features that help keep everything stable on the road. Pro Trailer Backup Assist™ is one of the standout tools, making it far less stressful to reverse with a trailer. Instead of fighting the wheel, you guide the trailer with a dial and let the system handle the steering inputs. Integrated trailer brake controllers and hitch guidance systems also help smooth out the process. Hooking up, maneuvering in tighter spaces, and managing stops all feel more controlled, which is exactly what you want when pulling extra weight. F-150®: The Go-To for Most Travel Trailers The 2026 Ford F-150® is where most buyers will land. It offers a range of engine options, including a hybrid setup, and strikes a strong balance between power and everyday comfort. It is capable enough for most travel trailers while still being easy to live with during the week. That matters if this is your only vehicle. You get solid towing performance without stepping into a heavier-duty truck that may feel oversized for daily driving. Super Duty®: When the Trailer Gets Serious If your trailer starts pushing into heavier territory, the 2026 Ford Super Duty® lineup is the clear move. Models like the F-250®, F-350®, and F-450® are built for sustained towing, not occasional use. Available diesel engines provide strong torque for pulling uphill or over long distances, and the overall chassis is designed to stay composed under load. This is the truck you choose when towing is the priority, not just an occasional task. Maverick®: Small Truck, Smaller Trailer, Smart Fit The 2026 Ford Maverick® is a different kind of solution. It is not built for large trailers, but it works well for smaller setups like lightweight campers or utility trailers. Its compact size makes it easy to drive and park, especially in town, and the available hybrid powertrain keeps fuel use in check. For drivers who want to tow occasionally without committing to a full-size truck, it is a practical option. Find the Right Truck at Auffenberg Ford North The best truck for towing a travel trailer is the one that fits your setup, not just the biggest one on the lot. The F-150® covers most needs, Super Duty® handles the heavy work, and Maverick® fits lighter-duty use. If you are near O’Fallon, Missouri, visit Auffenberg Ford North to compare these trucks in person and schedule a test drive online. Getting the right match makes every trip smoother from the start.

When it comes to finding the ideal vehicle for your family, Ford SUVs deliver a winning combination of safety, space, and versatility. With each one boasting unique style and features, they all show off advanced technology and robust performance to handle daily commutes and weekend adventures alike. For families in O'Fallon, Missouri, Ford SUVs provide the perfect balance of comfort and practicality. more Top Features of Family-Friendly Ford SUVs Spacious Interiors and Flexible Seating One of the standout qualities of Ford SUVs for families is their spacious interiors. Models like the Ford Explorer and Expedition offer 3 rows of seating for up to 8 passengers, ample room for passengers and cargo, making them ideal for growing families or those who frequently travel with gear. With flexible seating configurations and strong points including nearly 41” of legroom in the 3 rd row for the Expedition and the Explorer featuring flat-folding seats and hidden under-floor storage, these SUVs ensure everyone rides comfortably and with all their stuff. Additionally, available hands-free liftgates make loading and unloading a breeze, whether you're packing up for a road trip or a grocery run. Advanced Safety Features Safety is a top priority for any family vehicle, and Ford SUVs excel in this area. Equipped with Ford Co-Pilot360® technology, these vehicles offer a suite of advanced safety features, including Automatic Emergency Braking, Blind-Spot Monitoring, and Lane-Keeping Assist. These systems work together to provide peace of mind on every drive. For families navigating busy streets in O'Fallon, these safety technologies are invaluable in keeping everyone protected. Entertainment and Connectivity Keeping the whole family entertained on long drives is easy with Ford's cutting-edge technology. Many family-friendly Ford SUVs come with available features like in-vehicle Wi-Fi® hotspots, wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ compatibility, and wireless charging. Passengers can stream music, access navigation, or even enjoy in-car karaoke through the Ford Connectivity Package. With these features, road trips become more enjoyable for both kids and adults alike. Popular Ford SUVs for Families in O'Fallon Ford Explorer The Ford Explorer is a versatile midsize SUV that offers seating for up to 7 passengers. With its powerful engine options, such as its 3.0L twin-turbo V6 with 400 hp and 415 lbs.-ft. of torque, it’s perfect for families who love adventure. It's available in an all-wheel drive configuration and an impressive 5,000-lb. towing capacity makes it a powerhouse as well as a functional family companion. Ford Expedition For larger families or those who need maximum space and power, the Ford Expedition is a top choice. This full-size SUV offers a luxurious interior with advanced features like a panoramic sunroof, premium sound system, and leather-appointed seats. With an available High-Output twin-turbo V6 that generates a monstrous 440 hp and 510 lbs.-ft. of torque, as well as 4-wheel drive capability, it can take on the most extreme family adventures. It's exceptional cargo capacity at up to 108.5 cu. ft. and massive 9,600-lb. towing capacity lets you pack up camping gear, sports equipment, luggage, a trailer, boat… The possibilities are endless. Ford Bronco Sport If your family enjoys outdoor activities, the Ford Bronco Sport is a compact SUV that combines rugged capability with family-friendly features. Its durable design and off-road capabilities make it perfect for exploring trails around Missouri while still providing the comfort and safety you need for everyday driving.  The 2026 Ford Bronco Sport offers up to 250 hp with its turbocharged engine, standard 4WD with up to 7 G.O.A.T. modes (Goes Over Any Type of Terrain), and rugged suspension systems. All this ruggedness, and it still maintains city-friendly dimensions and up to 27 MPG combined. Visit Auffenberg Ford North in O'Fallon Ready to find the perfect Ford SUV for your family? Auffenberg Ford North in O'Fallon has an extensive inventory of family-friendly Ford SUVs to suit your needs. Whether you're looking for the spacious Explorer, the luxurious Expedition, or the adventurous Bronco Sport, our team is here to help you choose the right model.

Every car needs a little TLC occasionally to deliver the best possible performance. A brake fluid flush is a simple maintenance task that becomes necessary when your brake fluid is low or contaminated. It can be carried out at your local Ford dealership either on its own or as part of a more general maintenance check. 1: Pulling to One Side If your car starts pulling to one side while braking, your first instinct may be to suspect a problem with the steering. However, if the brake fluid is low or contaminated, it can create a difference in pressure distribution. This can lead to uneven braking and cause your car to start pulling to either the left or the right. more 2: Grinding or Scraping Noises Loud noises when you brake are never a good sign, but it may simply be that your brake fluid is low. Although a lack of fluid won't cause any noises directly, it can cause the pressure to drop, making it difficult for the braking mechanisms to clamp tightly. This uneven contact can create a scraping or grinding noise as you brake. 3: Spongy Pressure As brake fluid levels drop, it's easier for air to enter the system. If the pressure feels spongy or softer when you press the brake pedal, this suggests that your brake fluid needs flushing. 4: Poor Braking Performance Your brakes should respond instantly, slowing the car down as soon as you press the brake pedal. If you notice your car takes longer to slow down, or you have to pump the brake pedal, it's a sign that brake fluid is not being distributed evenly through the braking system. 5: Dashboard Warning Lights There isn't a specific warning light for brake fluid on your dash, but there is one for ABS faults. If this lights up, it could indicate a problem with your brake fluid rather than with the rest of the braking system. 6: Vibrating Brakes Braking should always feel smooth and even, but if the brake fluid is low or contaminated this might not be the case. Tiny particles or air cushions can prevent force from being transmitted cleanly, causing components such as caliper pistons or master cylinder seals to grab intermittently, resulting in a vibrating sensation. Visit Your Local Ford Dealership Brakes are a critical part of your car, so it's important not to take any risks. If you notice any of the above signs or if anything else doesn't look quite right, it's always better to get your car checked out. Flushing the brake fluid is an easy maintenance task for Ford technicians to carry out and will ensure your brakes work properly. Our Ford-trained technicians are highly skilled professionals who have the expertise to deal with all routine and emergency repairs. Schedule an appointment with us here at Auffenberg Ford North in O'Fallon, IL, and we'd be happy to help.

Your brakes allow you to control your speed and stop anytime. They depend on friction, heat, and pressure to work effectively, and over time, components will age or become damaged. Since all the system parts work together, any damage reduces braking efficiency and could cause an accident. As your Ford dealer, we want to ensure that you have all the information you need to keep your car running strong. With that in mind, check out a few signs you need to visit us for a brake repair. more Pulling to One Side When you hit the brakes, the calipers descend on the wheel rotors and clamp against them. The brake pads inside the calipers generate friction against the spinning rotors, stopping your wheels. All four calipers grab the rotors simultaneously, ensuring your vehicle stops as quickly as possible. If you brake and feel your Ford turning toward one side, this is a sign of brake trouble. The problem is caused by a caliper failing to grab its rotor, and the affected wheel continues to move until stopped by the other wheels. The fault could be caused by a rusted caliper or a blockage in the brake hose leading to the caliper. A blocked hose prevents brake fluid from reaching the caliper and forcing it to close as it should. We'll investigate and clear the blockage or replace the caliper to fix this problem. Hard Brake Pedal When you push down on the brake pedal, you expect resistance. This resistance is generated by the pressurized brake fluid, and the harder you press down the more resistance. A hard brake pedal is a situation where the pedal refuses to move unless you apply significant force. This can be tiring, and it's dangerous as it prevents you from engaging your brakes as quickly as you may need. The extreme resistance is caused by a brake pedal booster failure. The booster is positioned between your pedal and the rest of the braking system. It uses vacuum pressure to magnify the force exerted on the pedal by 10x. This extra power enables you to easily press the pedal when needed. Damage to the vacuum prevents the booster from working. We'll examine the booster and repair or replace it, so your brakes will work smoothly again. Brake Fluid Leak As we've seen, brakes depend on brake fluid to deliver the hydraulic pressure to force them to engage. If your brakes aren't regularly serviced, brake lines can rust, and brake hoses can leak. As the system loses brake fluid, you'll feel less resistance from the pedal, the braking distance will increase, and your brakes will become less responsive. Our technicians will examine your braking system, repair the leak, and then refill the fluid, so your brakes will work effectively again. If you have a brake problem, contact our service department ASAP at Auffenberg Ford North in O'Fallon, IL.

A faulty ignition coil can lead to frustrating car troubles, including misfiring, lost power, backfiring, and even a destroyed catalytic converter. A bad coil is usually straightforward to repair or replace at your local Ford dealer, but you need to detect the problem and respond as quickly as you can. The following are eight key symptoms of a faulty ignition coil to look out for. more Your Engine Starts Misfiring The ignition coil is connected to each spark plug inside your engine and delivers powerful jolts of electricity hundreds of times per minute, allowing the spark plugs to ignite the fuel. If a failing coil stops delivering this electricity, the spark plug will misfire. This usually causes the engine to shake and cough alarmingly. Your Car Idles Roughly Misfiring becomes most pronounced when the car pauses in idle, which puts far more strain on the engine. Rather than quietly purring, the idling engine will shudder and sputter loudly. Your Engine Cuts Off A misfiring engine with a bad coil can also suddenly stall. This could leave you without power in a hazardous spot such as when navigating a busy intersection. You Struggle to Gain Speed The coils also play a role in acceleration. If one or more of your coils die, you'll find it much harder to speed up. This can be dangerous when attempting to overtake another car or accelerate out of a corner. Your Car Starts Backfiring When a failing coil leads to misfiring, fuel is still being injected into the cylinder. At least some of this fuel will remain unburned and collect until it leaks back into the exhaust system, where it might ignite, causing backfiring. If this unburned fuel reaches the catalytic converter, it could destroy the cat: a costly component to replace. You See Smoke Behind You Unburned fuel typically ignites or at least partially ignites inside the heat of the exhaust pipes. So if your car has coil issues, you may soon see black smoke emitting from the tailpipe. Your Check Engine Light Comes to Life Usually, the check engine light will appear on the instrument panel when a coil goes bad. Although you may not initially know what triggered this warning light, a technician will promptly diagnose and repair the underlying problem. Your Ford Dealer Identifies a Bad Coil It's generally recommended to have your spark plugs and coils periodically inspected by a professional. The trained eye of one of our technicians will notice coil issues early on. We can then nip the problem in the bud long before it causes problems on the road. Have your faulty coils replaced today at Auffenberg Ford North in O'Fallon, IL. We offer an extensive range of new and pre-owned vehicles, efficient maintenance services, and prompt automotive repairs.

Every Ford is built to last, but even the toughest vehicle needs a little care and attention to stay in tip-top shape. If vehicle longevity is important to you, it's wise to learn the essential maintenance that your car requires and never miss a beat when it comes to these services. Your local Ford dealer can set up a routine schedule for all Ford maintenance services and help ensure you enjoy your car for many, many years to come. more Oil and Coolant Protect Your Car's Engine As the beating heart of your car, the engine should always be looked after with great care. If you allow this ticker to wear out, your entire car may also give up the ghost prematurely. The number one factor determining engine lifespan is how well you keep up with oil changes; by keeping the engine lubricated, clean, and corrosion-free, motor oil minimizes friction and deterioration. If you forget to refresh the motor oil once every six months or so, your engine will experience rapid and irreversible wear and tear. Coolant plays just as important a role in engine maintenance. By protecting against overheating, the coolant keeps the engine alive. Coolant needs to be regularly checked, topped up, and flushed. All Vehicle Fluids Must Frequently Be Refreshed The other fluids in your vehicle also play a vital role and must be periodically checked to ensure they're not too low or degraded. This includes the brake fluid, transmission fluid, power steering fluid, differential fluid, and windshield wiper fluid. Brakes Components Must Be Inspected and Replaced Nothing will ruin your car's longevity quicker than a collision. The condition of your brakes is key to staying safe and avoiding road accidents. Each brake component should ideally be inspected by a professional twice a year and worn-out parts replaced without delay. Tires Need Routine Pressure Checks and Rotations Your tires play an equally important part in your road safety. Regular air pressure checks and tire rotations keep you safer on the road, while also extending tire lifespan. It's usually optimal to check tire pressure once a month and take your car in for tire rotations twice a year. Book All Ford Maintenance at Your Local Ford Dealer These and several other vital car maintenance services can promptly be carried out at your local dealership. Even one missed oil change can harm your engine, reduce its longevity, and diminish the car's resale value. Avoid any such mishap by scheduling your important maintenance services in advance; our technicians can then remind you whenever it's time for a visit. Have your car serviced today at Auffenberg Ford North in O'Fallon, IL. We're a trusted local dealership providing an extensive range of new and pre-owned vehicles, comprehensive maintenance services, and courteous, personalized customer care.

A dead car battery can ruin a great day. However, batteries usually don't die without any warning. At Auffenberg Ford North in O'Fallon, IL, we have a checklist of indicators that your vehicle needs a new car battery. Check out these seven signs you need battery service, and when to visit your Ford dealership for help. more 1. Headlights Are Dim If you think your headlights aren't as bright as they have been, it may be time for a new battery. If the lights seem to dim while idling, but they perk up when you accelerate, your battery may not be holding a charge. The service department here at Auffenberg Ford North can check your battery's voltage to determine whether you need a new battery. 2. Interior Lights Are Dim Even if the headlights seem normal, dim interior lights, including dashboard lights, can also indicate the battery life is growing short. As with the headlights, if the interior or dash lights get brighter when you start the car, it's likely a battery issue. Visit your Ford dealer to check whether you need a battery. 3. Engine is Slow to Turn If your car's engine seems sluggish when starting, don't panic. It could be the battery. There may be other causes for this, but a bad battery is the most obvious place to start, along with checking the alternator and wiring. 4. Windows Are Slow Although it may sound odd, if the electric windows in your car are sluggish when you roll them down, the battery may need to be replaced. If your windows operate normally when the engine is running, but slow down when using just battery power, they may be telling you it's time for a new battery. 5. Battery Posts Are Corroded If you raise the hood on your Ford and see corrosion (white or greenish powder) coating the battery posts, it's time to head to the dealership. No matter what you've heard from a friend or relative, don't pour a can of soda on the posts, or try baking soda and vinegar to clean the corrosion. Your battery could be undercharging, which can cause this issue. It needs to be resolved before it damages the vehicle. 6. Headlights Were Left On This may be the most frequent cause of a suddenly dead battery. If the car won't start and the interior dome light won't come on, check the headlight switch. If your car doesn't feature automatic-off headlights and the lights (even the parking lights) were left on, they probably killed the battery. 7. Battery Has Aged Out Even with good maintenance, every battery eventually dies. It depends on several variables, but most batteries last from three to five years. At the three-year mark, it's time to have the battery checked regularly. Whether your battery has some age on it, or you just want peace of mind while on the road, contact our service department here at Auffenberg Ford North in O'Fallon, IL and schedule an appointment. We'll have you on the road again in no time.

As a Ford owner, knowing when to get an oil change is essential for preserving your engine's health. But how do you know when it's time to visit your Ford dealer for a service? Once upon a time the common wisdom was every three months or 3,000 miles. Those days, however are long gone. Most vehicles made in the past couple of decades average around 6 months or 6,000 miles for oil changes, but every car is unique. Here’s how to determine whether your Ford is due for an oil change. more Is Your Ford Due for an Oil Change? Here's How to Tell Newer Ford models are equipped with the Intelligent Oil-Life Monitor (IOLM), which takes the guesswork out of oil service intervals. This advanced system monitors your driving habits and operating conditions and calculates the percentage of oil life remaining. You will get an alert on the dashboard when it's time to change the oil. If your Ford is an older model that doesn't have the IOLM system, consult your owner's manual for recommended service intervals. Also, watch for these signs that indicate your vehicle needs an oil service: Dark or dirty oil Illuminated check engine light Unusual engine noises Excessive exhaust smoke Oil smell inside the car Change the oil as soon as you notice these signs to keep the engine running smoothly. Benefits of Timely Oil Services at Your Ford Dealer Lubricate the Engine Fresh oil provides essential lubrication for your Ford's engine components. It creates a protective film between moving parts, reducing friction and wear. As the engine operates, this lubrication allows the pistons, valves, and other parts to move smoothly within the engine block. This prevents unnecessary strain and potential damage. Cool Down Engine Parts Oil plays a critical role in regulating engine temperatures. As it circulates through the system, it absorbs heat generated by moving parts. This heat transfer helps prevent overheating and maintains an optimal operating temperature. Get Rid of Sludge Buildup Over time, oil collects dirt, debris, and metal particles as it circulates through the engine. This accumulation can lead to sludge buildup, which clogs vital engine parts and reduces efficiency. Sludge also prevents the oil from properly lubricating and cooling down the engine. Changing the oil removes the old, sludgy oil along with dirt and other contaminants, keeping the engine clean. Optimize Engine Performance An oil service allows your Ford's engine to operate at peak efficiency. It reduces internal friction, ensures smooth component movement, and helps maintain proper combustion. This translates to better fuel economy, improved acceleration, and smoother operation. If you use your Ford for towing and off-road adventures, timely oil services will help maintain optimal capability. Extend the Life of Components Changing your engine oil regularly can extend the lifespan of your engine's components. If your Ford is running on old oil, there will be premature component damage due to increased heat and friction. Fresh oil provides superior protection against wear and tear, reducing the likelihood of premature component failure. This can save you from costly repairs and help maintain your Ford's value over time. When you change your engine oil on time, you are taking an important step in preserving your Ford's performance and longevity. Contact Auffenberg Ford North in O'Fallon, IL to schedule an oil service today!

Skids and blowouts are an ever-present threat for all drivers. If your tires lose traction with the road, even for a moment, a catastrophic accident may ensue. Healthy tires are in many ways the first line of defense in your vehicle’s safety systems. Learn some tips, tricks, and signs that you may need new tires, as well as what to do, to determine if you need new tires if you experience any of the following issues. more Worn-Out Tread Depths To maintain proper traction, the treads of your tires should always remain deeper than 2/32 of an inch. Whenever you check your tire air pressure, also take note of the tread depths. If any of your tires are nearing 2/32 of an inch in depth, it's time for a new set of tires. Bulging Tire Rubber Internal damage to tires can cause outer bulges and blisters. These kinds of internal ruptures can be caused by impacts with curbs, parking stanchions, or potholes. A tire with an external bulge or blister will usually need to be replaced. Cracked Tire Sidewalls As your tires age and gradually dry out, the sidewalls are likely to develop cracks. When these cracks grow noticeably long and deep, they might weaken the tire; it's best to have a technician take a look. Deep Cuts or Gashes All kinds of objects on the road can cut or gash tire rubber. Very small cuts in the thickest portion of tire treads might be harmless, but deeper cuts in thinner areas like the sidewalls or inside the tread voids can sometimes spell the end for the tire unless a repair is possible. Embedded Objects If you find an embedded nail, screw, metal fragment, piece of glass, or other object in one of your tires, remove it to see if the tire is seriously punctured. You might be able to have a minor puncture repaired, but it could also mean the tire is no longer safe to drive on. Diminishing Air Pressure Any tire that consistently loses air is hazardous to use. Ask a technician to diagnose the source of mysteriously falling air pressure, which might be a hidden puncture or a dented wheel rim. Strange Road Vibrations When tires become uneven, damaged, or excessively worn, you might notice an increase in vibrations and road noise. This is likely to become more apparent when driving at high speeds. Reduced Traction on Water If you sense a monetary loss of traction when traversing a wet road surface, you might have a serious problem with your tires. Even if you can't detect a tire fault, consider having your tires replaced; all drivers should feel absolute confidence in their tires at all times. Need New Tires? Visit Your Local Ford Dealer Have your tires repaired or replaced today at Auffenberg Ford North in O'Fallon, IL. We offer an impressive lineup of new and pre-owned vehicles along with courteous, personalized customer service, whatever your car-related needs might be.

Your Ford dealer offers a lot of services that will be beneficial to you and your car. You can, of course, buy a new car and trade in your old one at the dealership, and we also offer car financing to help with your purchase. On top of that, we can also provide Ford service to keep your car in fantastic shape and prevent breakdowns. Check out four important services offered by your Ford Dealer that you may not find at a neighborhood garage. more 1. Regular Routine Maintenance We provide every service your Ford needs to stay in great shape, including the important regular routine maintenance that keeps your car running like new for many years. You need a full scheduled maintenance service at least once a year, during which we'll check on all the components of your vehicle, change your oil, replace the oil filter, and top off any low fluid levels. Then, roughly every two years, you should consider a major service, where we'll perform all the checks and replacements involved in a full-service as well as additional checks and replacements. Components that may need to be replaced during a major service include the fuel filter and spark plugs. Your owner’s manual or dealer service department can help you get on the proper schedule. 2. General Automotive Repair Your dealership can offer everything from a basic tune-up to swapping out your whole engine. Well-maintained cars typically run smoothly, but they can still have issues from time to time. If your car is having problems, you should head straight to your local dealer to get the problem diagnosed and get the car repaired. We perform general automotive repairs on any aspect of your car, from replacing your spark plugs to rebuilding a transmission. So, if your engine is making weird noises, if your brakes are less responsive than usual, or if you're having trouble shifting gears, then we can take on that repair. We'll run an engine diagnostic to figure out what the problem is, if necessary, and then get to work on fixing the issue. 3. Headlight Checks Car headlights tend to last a very long time, but eventually, they will need to be replaced. In fact, all of the exterior and interior lights in your vehicle may need to be replaced at some point. We can test your headlights to see if they're working at full capacity and replace them if they're too dim to safely illuminate the road. 4. Battery Replacements We can check your car battery to see if it should be replaced now or in the near future. If your car is slow to turn over or even worse, if you can't get your car started without jumping it, then it may be the battery. If it is, we can replace your battery with a brand-new one that gets your car working as it should again. Get in touch with Auffenberg Ford North in O'Fallon, IL for routine maintenance or any other service you might need for your car. Our technicians can take care of any job, no matter how large or small, and get you back on the road and running like new in no time at all.