Before Northern Michigan Winter Sets In: 7 Ford Service Checks Worth Making

As time passes, your braking system suffers wear and tear due to the heat and pressure generated by braking. As parts wear or become damaged, the braking system will work less effectively, and this can cause an accident. As your Ford dealer, we'd like you to know a few signs you need to visit us for a brake service. Signs You Need To Visit Your Ford Dealer for a Brake Service Spare parts for the car. Suspension details. In the hands of an auto mechanic brake pads. There is a brake disc and a set of brake pads on the table.; Shutterstock ID 2124130121; purchase_order: 01176200; client: Barker Kia Screeching Noises Loud screeching noises from the brakes are a sign of worn brake pads. The pads fit into the calipers, which are forced against the wheel rotors when you hit the brakes. They have rough material coverings that generate friction against the smooth brake pads, and this action stops the wheels. As time passes, the material covering a pad will wear off. A healthy pad has a 1/2" thick material covering, which needs replacement when the material drops to 1/4". Pad manufacturers install a metal spike inside the material as a warning that the material has worn down. The spike scratches against the rotor, producing a loud screeching noise. We can replace any worn pads in minutes, and the noise will stop. Soft Brake Pedal The braking system uses pressurized brake fluid to generate the hydraulic pressure that forces the calipers against the rotors. You can feel this pressure as resistance when you push down on the pedal. The resistance grows as you apply more pressure, meaning your brakes work correctly. If you push on the brake pedal and feel little resistance, something is wrong with your brakes. The lack of resistance can be caused by an air bubble or other blockage in the brake system, or it could be due to low brake fluid. An air bubble can form over time, preventing brake fluid from moving through the system. Likewise, a lack of brake fluid prevents the brakes from engaging. Our technicians will investigate and fix the problem. Old Brake Fluid Brake fluid ages like all other fluids in your vehicle. Older fluid is susceptible to water absorption, and this can cause serious problems. As we've seen, braking generates heat. If you hit the brakes frequently over a short distance, for example, driving downhill, the fluid can overheat, and the water inside will boil. If this happens, you'll smell a harsh chemical stench, and brake responsiveness will drop. The fluid won't burn, but it loses its ability to generate hydraulic pressure. Without this pressure, your brakes can fail. We'll drain and replace the old fluid, and your brakes will work effectively again. Braking problems will worsen if not repaired, increasing your stopping distance and decreasing braking speed. Contact our service department today at Fernelius Ford, Inc. in Cheboygan, MI.

Is your AC not working? Driving without good air conditioning is no fun at all on hot summer days. The following maintenance tips will have your AC running at full power in all conditions. And if your AC runs into trouble, head to your local Ford dealer for repairs. Ford Air Conditioning Maintenance: Stay Cool and Comfortable Recharge the Refrigerant The AC works by cycling refrigerant through the condenser, compressor, and evaporator. As it flows, the refrigerants switches between liquid and gaseous states, drawing heat from the air as it does so. To maintain its special properties, the refrigerant will typically need to be recharged every two years. If your AC stops blowing cold air, you may have a refrigerant leak on your hands. As AC refrigerant is transparent, odorless, and evaporates quickly, it's often difficult to locate an AC leak without a special dye skillfully applied by a technician. Clean Your Car's Interior Regularly The quality of the air inside your cabin will impact the AC's long-term performance. With this in mind, clean and vacuum your cabin's surfaces frequently to prevent dust and airborne contaminants from building and clogging up the air conditioner. Replace the Cabin Air Filter The cabin air filter cleans the air entering your car. Without a good air filter, the air inside your car will become dirty, clogging the airways and hindering your AC. Cabin air filters usually need to be replaced once a year. Frequently Use Defrost Mode The AC's defrost mode is often essential on cold winter mornings when the windows are fogged and frosted. Even during the warmer seasons, it's a good idea to run defrost mode for 10 minutes per week. This helps clean out moisture from your cabin and AC system, while also preventing mold and maintaining optimal gas pressure. Set Your AC to the Coldest Setting Over the long run, your AC is put under less strain when used at the coldest setting. When warmer than this, the AC must reheat the air, working harder and burning additional fuel. So unless it's too chilly for comfort, keep your AC running extra cold. AC Not Working? Visit Your Ford Dealer for Repairs If your AC starts rattling, clicking, or making other strange sounds, have it examined and repaired. Any reduction in its ability to cool your car should also prompt repairs. Smelly air blowing out of the vents is often a sign that mold needs to be cleaned, and water dripping under your dashboard may point to a clogged outflow pipe. Whatever problem your AC has, have it fixed quickly before it develops into a more serious repair job. Visit Fernelius Ford, Inc. in Cheboygan, MI, today to have your AC serviced or repaired by experienced, helpful professionals. We seek to provide all our customers with a top-notch vehicle purchasing, financing, or servicing experience.

Keeping up with your Ford maintenance schedule protects your investment and ensures long-term reliability. If you drive a rugged F-150, a family-friendly Explorer, or a capable Bronco, routine service prevents unexpected breakdowns. Drivers looking for dependable care can trust Fernelius Ford, Inc in Cheboygan, MI, for expert guidance. Reach out to our team today to keep your vehicle running smoothly. Why Routine Maintenance Matters Following a consistent service schedule catches small issues before they become costly repairs. Skipping maintenance intervals accelerates wear on critical components and reduces vehicle performance. Ford bases its recommendations on real-world time and mileage demands, giving you peace of mind on the road. Understanding Ford Service Intervals Modern Ford vehicles typically require an oil and filter change every 7,500 miles or six months. Your specific model, engine type, and driving conditions may dictate different timing. The Intelligent Oil-Life Monitor in many Ford models tracks driving habits and alerts you when service is due. Key Services and Timing Tire rotations usually align with your 7,500-mile oil change visits. Technicians should inspect your brakes annually, or more frequently if you encounter heavy stop-and-go traffic. Replacing the cabin air filter every 15,000 to 20,000 miles maintains interior air quality. Transmission fluid and coolant services generally occur between 30,000 and 60,000 miles. Always consult your owner's manual for exact milestones. Convenient Service Options Ford Mobile Service brings certified technicians to your home or workplace for routine maintenance like oil changes and battery replacements. Alternatively, Ford Pickup and Delivery allows a team member to collect your vehicle, service it, and return it directly to you. Downloading the Ford app lets you earn Ford Rewards points on every visit, which you can redeem toward future maintenance or accessories. Schedule Your Next Appointment Sticking to your maintenance schedule protects vehicle performance and safety. By understanding your service intervals, you stay ahead of wear and avoid unexpected repairs. Let Fernelius Ford, Inc in Cheboygan, MI, handle all of your automotive needs. Contact our service department today to book your next appointment and keep your Ford in peak condition.