Blog

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.

The 2024 Ford Explorer comes with exciting styling upgrades that give the exterior a more refined and classy look. From unmatched interior space for cargo and comfort to powerful engines and capability, to the very best in infotainment technology, you can choose from a slew of options to make this traditional full-sized SUV exactly what you want. Settle in while we break down the various trim levels of the 2024 Ford Explorer. more Base Ford Explorer The base model Explorer is suitable for buyers looking for a practical and affordable SUV. The exterior gets 18-inch aluminum wheels, LED low-beam headlamps, and LED taillights. It is powered by a 2.3L four-cylinder engine paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission to produce 300 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. Inside, you get cloth seats, tri-zone automatic climate control, and an 8-way power driver's seat. There is an 8-inch touchscreen display with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto and a six-speaker audio system. The driver also gets a 4.2-inch productivity screen. All models are equipped with the Ford Co-Pilot360 package. XLT Next up in the 2024 Ford Explorer lineup is the XLT, which gets an exterior upgrade with LED signature lighting and heated, power outside mirrors. Stepping inside, you get heated front seats and a leather-wrapped steering wheel. The driver's seat gets 10 power settings, and the front passenger's seat is now power-adjustable. ST-Line The ST-Line adds a sporty flair to this three-row SUV with 20-inch aluminum wheels, a black mesh grille, and unique blackout detail around headlamps and taillamps. You also get ST-Line badging on the side and an "EXPLORER" badge on the hood. The seats are made of ActiveX, and the steering wheel is heated and leather-wrapped with red stitching. Timberline Timberline prepares you for off-road adventures with standard Intelligent AWD, off-road front struts and rear shocks, front tow hooks, and 18-inch wheels. You also get unique Timberline badges on the sides and liftgate. Timberline is also equipped with a standard Class IV Trailer Tow Package. Limited Limited doubles up on comfort with leather-trimmed seats, heated second-row seats, and rear climate controls. The front seats are heated and ventilated. You will also get a wireless charger, a 10.1-inch touchscreen display, and a 12-speaker B&O sound system. ST ST builds on the sporty ST-Line with a powerful 3.0L V6 engine that is offered in the King Ranch and Platinum as well. The engine combines turbocharging and direct injection to deliver 400 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque. The interior gains leather seats, heated front seats, and a larger 12.3-inch digital productivity screen. King Ranch King Ranch gets unique King Ranch badging to distinguish this model from others in the lineup. Mesa Del Rio leather interior trim adds a luxurious feel to the well-appointed cabin. Front seats are heated and ventilated, and the steering wheel is wrapped in the same interior leather with Norias stitching. Platinum The Platinum trim is the pinnacle of luxury in the Explorer lineup. It has leather seats with Tri-Diamond perforated inserts and Platinum branding, heated and ventilated front seats, and a leather-covered center console armrest. This model also gets the premium interior features in lower trims. Are you ready to get behind the wheel of one of the most capable traditional full-sized sport utility vehicles on the roads today? Swing by Auffenberg Ford North in O'Fallon, IL to explore the 2024 Explorer lineup.

If you aren't wild about big, burly SUVs, but need more space than a car can provide, and you'd like something a bit sporty, the 2024 Ford Bronco Sport should suit you perfectly. Better yet, even the base model is so filled with highly desirable standard features, that you probably won't even have to look at upgrades or higher trim levels. The Bronco Sport is in the top five of Car and Driver's 2024 Best Compact SUVs list. Check out why the Bronco Sport personifies adventure in compact form. more Design You can even be comfy while adventuring in your 2024 Bronco Sport because its upright seats help to provide more space. Even the amount of legroom in the back seat is quite satisfactory. The safari-style roof also contributes to the spaciousness, there's room for two bikes to be stored upright. Even the lowest trim has convenient standard features such as heated side mirrors and Electronic Automatic Temperature Control with rear air ducts. It's obvious that Ford engineers seriously considered how you might use your Bronco Sport. The bottle opener and two standard floodlights on the rear liftgate will add a great deal of convenience to your future tailgate parties and camping trips. If you do happen to be interested in upgrades, a power moonroof, 8-way adjustable driver's seat, and heated front seats are all available for the base model. Performance Adventures should have 4-wheel drive, and it's standard throughout the 2024 Bronco Sport lineup. The base model's standard 1.5-liter turbocharged 3-cylinder EcoBoost engine provides 181 hp and 190 lb-ft of torque. It's matched with an 8-speed automatic transmission. Another standard feature you'll appreciate on your adventures is the terrain management system that offers five driving modes from which you can choose: Sand, Slippery, Sport, Eco, and Normal. Technology There's no reason you can't have entertainment on adventures, and all of the 2024 Bronco models have a 6-speaker audio system with AM/FM stereo and Sirius XM satellite radio except for the top two trims, which have 10-speaker Bang & Olufsen sound systems. An 8-inch LCD swipeable capacitive touchscreen is standard throughout the line. It's the interface for Ford's SYNC communication and entertainment system, which includes Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and enhanced voice recognition. Two USB ports are standard on the Bronco Sport, one Type A and one Type C. All models have the option for a wireless charging pad and a voice-activated touchscreen navigation system with SiriusXM Traffic/Traffic Plus and Travel Link. Safety You need not worry about the 2024 Bronco Sport's safety. The National Highway Traffic Safety Association (NHTSA) awarded it a perfect 5-star overall safety rating. Plus, even the line's base model has valuable standard driver's aid safety features, including: Pre-collision assist with automatic emergency braking Lane-keeping system Blind spot monitoring with cross-traffic alert 911 Assist Rearview camera SOS post-crash alert system Post-collision braking Swing by Auffenberg Ford North in O'Fallon, IL to see how perfect the 2024 Bronco Sport is for adventuring.

The 2024 Ford F-250 SD combines the muscular performance of a Super Duty pickup with upscale interior comforts, available four-wheel drive, and next-level technology, making it the perfect truck for both heavy workloads and trail-tackling adventures. Learn how the 2024 Ford F-250 Super Duty makes tough jobs easy and does it with style! more Muscle and Versatility Along with multiple trim levels, you have your choice between four different V8 engines with the 2024 Ford F-250 SD, with the base option being a 6.8-liter gas engine that delivers 405 horsepower and 445 pound-feet of torque. Another gas engine, a 7.3-liter, generates up to 430 horses while churning out 484 pound-feet of torque. The other two options are both turbocharged 6.7-liter diesel engines, with the first producing 475 horsepower alongside 1,050 pound-feet of torque. The other, a high-output variant, increases output to 500 horsepower and 1,200 pound-feet of torque. As for off-road journeys, you'll be more than ready to conquer tough terrains with the available 4x4 system available for this edition, which can be combined with many other off-roading features for enhanced versatility. Luxurious Yet Rugged The truck's cab has a 40/20/40 split-folding bench seat up front and a rear 60/40 one that's perfect for clearing more space for cargo as needed. If still need more room, there's an available rear under-seat storage area as well. Available comfort amenities, many of which are standard in select trims, include dual-zone climate control, power-adjustable front seats with heating and ventilation settings, heated rear seats, and a heated steering wheel with memory and audio controls. Outside, the F-250 SD's design is both rugged and stylish, with standard high-mounted stop lamps, front tow hooks, and power telescoping trailer tow mirrors that come with a heating setting. In select trims, the tailgate can be removed, while in others it offers a power-release function, and climbing into the cab is made simple with the available power-deployable running boards and retractable bed side step. Advanced Technology Whether your passengers are enjoying the standard 5G Wi-Fi hotspot and SYNC 4 infotainment system or jamming out to music on the available 14-speaker B&O audio system, this truck has plenty of innovative technology inside and out. When loading cargo in the bed, you can get estimates on how heavy your payload is using the optional Onboard Scales feature, and you can easily use power tools or power on other electrical devices with the Pro Power Onboard mobile electricity generator. This pickup's driver-assist systems also incorporate first-class technology, with Hill Start Assist, AdvanceTrac with Roll Stability Control, Trailer Sway Control, the Trailer Brake Controller, the Tire Pressure Monitoring System, and the Rear View Camera all coming standard. Ready to see this pickup for yourself? ` Come test-drive the 2024 F-250 SD here at our dealership by contacting us today at Auffenberg Ford North in O'Fallon, IL.

The 2024 Ford Explorer is a bold mid-size SUV with a tough appearance, a driving experience you'll enjoy, and an interior that looks upscale and polished. There are three rows of seating to accommodate the whole family, and there's lots of cargo space for all of your essentials, too. Let’s examine a few reasons why the 2024 Ford Explorer represents versatility for drivers. more Stylish and Functional Exterior The 2024 Ford Explorer is easy on the eye. It has a bold look, is available in bright colors, and has exterior features such as a body-color rear spoiler and chrome liftgate appliqué. It also has automatic high and low beams, so you don't have to constantly switch between the two settings while driving in the dark. The power liftgate is another exterior feature that you're bound to use all the time. It helps make getting access to the cargo area effortless. Large and Functional Cargo Area There's a whole lot of space for cargo in the Explorer, especially if you fall down the second and third rows. The most amount of cargo space you get to use is 87.8 cubic feet, which is very impressive. With the second and third rows full of passengers, you've got 18.2 cubic feet of space to use in the regular cargo area. Cargo hooks, which help keep all your important items secure, are standard on all models. There are lots of optional features available for the cargo area, too, including two different-sized cargo organizers, a cargo organizer cooler bag, a cargo mat, and a cargo area management system. With all of these options, your busy family is well taken care of. Vast Interior Tech Every model of the Explorer is Wi-Fi capable, and you can opt-in to get a free Wi-Fi credit to make the hotspot functional. Each model is also equipped with plenty of USB ports to keep your devices charged, ensuring you don't miss out on anything going on in the outside world while taking trips. Fantastic Sound System The Explorer's premium sound system helps it stand out on the market, as it has a 14-speaker B&O sound system that's standard. Sound systems like this are often only available as an upgrade or as standard on higher trims of competitor vehicles. It'll let you easily listen to all your favorite stations on the standard SiriusXM that your vehicle is equipped with. Highly Enjoyable to Drive The Explorer is equipped with a 2.3-liter EcoBoost I-4 engine that has plenty of power to get you around while keeping you feeling energized. If you like driving in rural areas where the terrain isn't so smooth, then you'll get a lot of use out of the Terrain Management System, which is standard. Hill Descent Control is an optional feature available that's useful for those of you who enjoy having adventures in areas with sloping roads. Come and see the Explorer at Auffenberg Ford North in O'Fallon, IL. You can schedule your test drive online today.

The 2024 Ford F-150 Lightning is the gold standard of EVs. It has the power of the company's signature F-Series and an electric engine to reduce your environmental footprint. You can tow equipment around town, master any job, and explore off-road without relying on gas. Learn about its specifications and features and see for yourself how the 2024 Ford F-150 Lightning is electrifying the future. more Hauling Electrified EVs can now match the power of traditional gas. The 2024 Ford F-150 Lightning runs on an IGBT inverter that produces 452 horsepower with the standard battery or 580 horsepower with the extended-range battery. It also gets 775 lb.-ft. of torque and can tow up to 5,000 lbs. with the standard battery or 7,700 lbs. with the extended range battery or max tow package. When you add the tow package to the extended-range battery, you can tow up to 10,000 lbs. You can drive far without having to recharge the battery. The standard battery has an EPA-estimated range of 240 miles, while the extended-range battery on the Flash and Lariat trims can travel up to an EPA-estimated 320 miles. Built for Storage You can fit more in the Lightning than you can in a traditional pickup. The cargo box has 52.8 cubic feet of space, but because there's no engine, the front trunk also has 14.1 cubic feet of storage space to help you stay organized. There's also underseat storage for keeping valuables out of sight. Driver Safety The Lightning has all the safety features of a modern pickup, including a rearview camera that helps you reverse safely into tight spaces. Cross-traffic alerts with trailer tow coverage make it easier to back out when you're hauling a heavy load. Use the tire pressure monitoring system to keep air pressure in the ideal range. The active restraint system with three-point seatbelts reduces the risk of injury in the unlikely event of an accident. You also get a top-down 360-degree camera showing what's happening around the truck to help you maintain a safe distance from obstacles. It has pre-collision assist with automatic emergency braking for shorter stopping times. The lane-keeping system prevents you from swerving outside the lines. Interior Comfort The interior features dual-zone automatic climate control to help you stay cool and a 12-inch productivity screen for navigating your surroundings and enjoying audio. It uses enhanced voice recognition to help you keep your hands on the wheel. You can also upgrade to the Bang & Olufsen audio package to improve your listening experience. The future of EVs is here. If you want to haul like a pro without fuel, this truck is for you. Visit Auffenberg Ford North in O'Fallon, IL, to harness the power of this electric pickup.

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!

Forty-seven years. That's how long the Ford F-series has been America's #1-selling line of trucks, and with top-tier performance from the fields of the farm to the front lines of first response, the 2024 Ford F-350SD has the might, capability, and longevity to not just outwork the competition, but outlast them, too. Let’s learn about the unstoppable force of the new 2024 Ford F-350SD lineup. more Might and Muscle With gas and diesel power plants under the hood displacing from 6.7 to 7.3 liters, the entire F-350SD lineup is built to move not just you, but any friends, equipment, trailers, and supplies you could possibly need. Even the humblest F-350SD offers 405 horsepower and 445 lb-ft of torque, while the mightiest engine in the line, the 6.7-liter High Output Power Stroke V8 Turbo Diesel, offers a full 500 horsepower and an absolutely astonishing 1,200 lb-ft of torque. One Tough Tower While exact capacity will change with engine, cab, drivetrain, and box configurations, one stunning fact remains: there is not a single F-350 Super Duty in the 2024 lineup with a conventional towing capacity of less than 17,600 pounds, and in the right configuration, the F-350SD can tow a massive 27,000 pounds of trailer even before switching to the available gooseneck connection. Doing so has its perks, however, with the amount of towing capacity on offer expanding to a range from 17,500 pounds all the way up to 32,900 pounds of hauling, a maximum capacity equating to over 16 tons of towing. A Prince of Payload Payload capacity on the 2024 F-350SD is nothing to sneeze at, starting at over 4,100 pounds and climbing all the way to a stunning 8,000 pounds of payload in the right configuration. To help ensure happy hauling, available Onboard Scales can help track the weight and balance of cargo in the truck bed as you load, making sure the load remains evenly distributed and vehicle dynamics remain consistent. Legendary Reliability The Super Duty badge on the F-350SD isn't just an indicator of might: it's also a tell-tale sign of reliability. And it's not just us who think so; J.D. Power has named the entire Super Duty lineup America's #1 Heavy-Duty Truck for Long-Term Reliability. The F-350SD isn't just built Ford tough, it's built to last, and keep on running. With so much power and reliability that ensures it's ready to ride at a moment's notice, the 2024 F-350 Super Duty belongs at the front of any fleet. Test drive your F-350SD today at Auffenbeng Ford North in O'Fallon, IL, and experience the Super Duty muscle that gets the job done.

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.