Blog

Taking care of your Ford keeps it running longer. Original equipment manufacturer or OEM parts are the best option for your vehicle and can be purchased from your Ford dealer. These are parts that come straight from Ford, and which are designed specifically to work with your vehicle. While sometimes third-party auto parts may advertise solid performance, these are always a risk and can be costly in the long run. Let’s take a look at why OEM parts are vital to maintaining your Ford car, truck, or SUV’s performance, and the benefits of getting them from your local Ford dealership. more Built for Your Ford Replacing a part with anything other than OEM means it might not fit, and it may not work the way the original part did. An OEM part is not only made to fit your specific vehicle, it's been made to function like the old part, too. It's just like replacing the old part with a clone. Aftermarket parts can be hit or miss. But with an OEM part, you know it's been made to Ford's standards, designed to work perfectly with your vehicle. It also includes a manufacturer's warranty - typically for one year - to give you peace of mind. Easier and Faster Repairs When you contact us for a replacement part or bring your vehicle in for service, we may already have the part you need. This means you get your part sooner, and we do the repairs quicker. Either way, you're not necessarily waiting for weeks for a part to come in  only to find it doesn't fit or work. You'll be back on the road sooner. This is especially important if the repairs are because of an accident. It's already stressful enough to deal with the claims process. You shouldn't have to stress about how long a repair will take at the same time. Made for Safety Each OEM part from Ford is individually tested to meet safety standards set by the government. They're also tested with the other Ford parts they designed to work with. Some tests include material strength, failure tests, spring strength, tensile strength, and strength of connections between components. Ford parts are also safer because you don't have to worry about an aftermarket part causing damage while driving. In the best-case scenario, you have to repair something under the hood later. Worst case scenario, you have an accident because that aftermarket part failed. Protect the Value of Your Ford Using original equipment parts keeps you from voiding any existing warranties, which keeps future costs down. It also prevents future expensive repairs. Because an aftermarket part isn't guaranteed to fit and function with currently installed parts, it might cause jams, wear and tear, breaks, and other damage. These issues, even if they're only nagging ones, reduce the value of your vehicle. Repairing your Ford vehicle with original equipment manufacturer parts keeps it running longer and better. Importantly, repairs can be less complicated and expensive. Contact Auffenberg Ford North in O'Fallon, IL to order parts or schedule service for your Ford.

Knowing when it's time for transmission service from your Ford dealer is key to keeping your vehicle in good condition. Your transmission is the key to your vehicle’s smooth running. It’s every bit as important as the engine itself. Without a smooth-functioning transmission, you simply cannot drive your car. You must understand the signs of issues with your transmission. Learn how to recognize that it’s time to head to your local Ford dealership for transmission service. more Difficulty Shifting Gears Whether you're driving an automatic or a manual, the transition between gears should be smooth and effortless. If you notice hesitation, resistance, or any abruptness during gear shifting, it's a clear sign something isn't right and you may need transmission service. If you have a manual transmission, you might also notice difficulty putting the gear stick into or out of gear. Unusual Noises Pay attention to your vehicle's sounds; they're often the first hint that something is wrong. A well-functioning transmission should operate without much noise. If you start hearing whining, buzzing, or clunking sounds, it could indicate that your transmission needs professional attention. Leaking Transmission Fluid Transmission fluid is crucial for keeping the parts of your transmission lubricated and cool. If you spot a sweet-smelling liquid under your car that is red or brown, it's likely transmission fluid. A leak reduces the efficiency of your transmission and can also lead to severe damage if not addressed promptly. The key is the smell: transmission fluid will have a sweet smell to it, unlike motor oil. Of course, any fluid leaking from under your car is a reason to get in for service! Check Engine Light The check engine light can activate for numerous reasons, including transmission issues. Modern vehicles are equipped with sensors that monitor various systems in the car, including the transmission. Many problems can trigger the check engine light, but it should never be ignored. Slipping Gears A transmission that's in good condition should stay in the selected gear until either the driver or the vehicle's computer initiates a change. If your car’s transmission slips out of gear when it shouldn't, or you notice a slipping or thudding sensation when shifting gears, it's a major safety risk as well as a sign that your transmission requires immediate service. Delayed Engagement When you shift from park to drive, your vehicle should respond immediately. If there's a noticeable delay before your Ford starts moving, it's referred to as delayed engagement, a common symptom of transmission trouble. Burning Smell A burning smell coming from your car is never a good sign. In the case of your transmission, it could mean the transmission fluid is overheating. Overheated fluid can't protect or lubricate the transmission's moving parts effectively, leading to accelerated wear and other potential problems. Visit Your Ford Dealer for Transmission Service Regular maintenance on schedule can help avoid many of these issues. Service for your transmission typically involves changing the transmission fluid, checking for leaks, and ensuring that the transmission is operating correctly. At your local dealership, our certified technicians have the specialized training needed to keep your transmission in top shape. Your transmission is a complex mechanism, so it's best to consult the professionals when you notice any of these symptoms or any time something feels off in any way about your vehicle. Call Auffenberg Ford North in O'Fallon, IL, to schedule your next service today.

The 2024 Ford Bronco is crafted for off-road driving and trailblazing in the toughest terrain. I boasts features like Advanced 4x4 with automatic on-demand engagement, G.O.A.T. modes, and more. Learn everything you need to know about this outstanding off-road SUV before you visit your local dealer. more Exploring the Wild with the 2024 Ford Bronco The 2024 Ford Bronco has two engine options. The 2.3-liter EcoBoost I4 engine is standard on the Big Bend, Black Diamond, Outer Banks, Badlands, Heritage Edition, and Everglades trims. The Wilktrak and Heritage Limited Edition both have a 2.7-liter EcoBoost V6 engine. Big Bend The Big Bend trim comes with 17-inch wheels painted in Carbonized Gray, configurable daytime running lights, LED fog lights, and second-row privacy glass. This trim comes with Marine-grade vinyl and Ford Pass Connect. Four-door models have a 60/40 split-folding rear seat, while two-door models have a 50/50 folding rear seat. Black Diamond This trim has 17-inch High Gloss Black aluminum wheels, heated manual-folding side mirrors, roof rails, and a manual swing gate with a 150-degree swing. The Black Diamond trim also has manual single-zone climate control, a manual day/night rearview mirror, and a leather steering wheel. Outer Banks The Outer Banks trim is equipped with 18-inch bright machined aluminum wheels with a painted Black High Gloss finish, removable doors and top, and body-color exterior features. Heated front seats with cloth seating, a six-way manual driver's seat, and a six-way manual passenger's seat are also standard for this trim. Badlands The Badlands trim has key features such as LED signature lighting and a powder-coated steel front bumper. This trim has a seven-speaker audio system, AppLink with an App Catalogue, 911 Assist, and compatibility with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Heritage Edition The Heritage Edition has key standard features such as 17-inch white wheels, an Oxford White painted hardtop, and a Heritage bodyside graphic. Other highlights for this trim include a voice-activated touchscreen navigation system, SiriusXM, reverse parking sensors, and trailer sway control. Wildtrak The Wildtrak trim is equipped with dual-zone electronic automatic temperature control, an eight-inch LCD screen, and a terrain management system with seven G.O.A.T. modes. Everglades This trim is outfitted with 17-inch Carbonized Gray alloy wheels, a snorkel system, remote keyless entry, and illuminated sliding visor vanity mirrors. For models with four doors, this trim has a slide-out tailgate. Heritage Limited Edition This limited edition model has standard features such as 17-inch dog dish aluminum wheels with a Black High Gloss finish and a white wall. This trim is also equipped with a 10-speaker B&O sound system with a subwoofer, a SYNC 4 12-inch LCD touchscreen, rubberized flooring, and a unique Heritage Limited Edition console badge.  The 2024 Bronco is an impressive SUV packed with plenty of off-road features. Check out your favorite Ford Bronco trim in person when you visit Auffenberg Ford North in O'Fallon, IL.