Fernelius Blog

Have you been behind the wheel of your Ford and are questioning whether you have the best tires for you and your vehicle? Fernelius Ford in Cheboygan breaks down different types of tires so you can determine which ones you currently have and decide if there's reason to make a change. 

• All-Season Tires
  These come in S- and T-speed ratings and are typically great for all-weather grip and long mileage. They are most common on mainstream cars and SUVs, like the Ford Escape. 
  
  
• Performance All-Season Tires
  If you have a brand-new Ford, you may notice these types of tires with an H- or V-speed rating. This is common on upgraded wheels or on cars with more enthusiast appeal. They offer better cornering grip than S- and T-speed rated all-season tires. However, these tires may not last as long.
  
  
• Ultra-High-Performance, All-Season and Summer Tires
  Typically used on sports cars and summer sedans, you will find these in ZR-, W-, and Y-speed ratings. Differentiating between all-season and summer tires can be a challenge - you can always call the Fernelius Ford parts department at 844-338-9571 with any questions.
  
  
• All-Season and All-Terrain Truck Tires
  Designed for hauling and towing, these ties come in large sizes to fit light-duty pickup trucks as well as SUVs. All-terrain tires tend to have a more aggressive tread pattern to help with off-road traction. 
  
  
• Winter and Snow Tires
  These are the most easily identifiable, as they have a mountain and snowflake symbol displayed on the tire's sidewall. The tread also looks much busier than all-season tires; there are many more slits/sipes. These tires should always be purchased as a set of four to optimize braking and handling.

Have more questions about Ford tires or other parts? Contact Fernelius Ford today. Our family serves Alpena, Indian River, Petoskey, Mackinaw City, Onaway, Gaylord, Rogers City, St. Ignace and everywhere in between, and we can't wait to welcome you to our Cheboygan dealership.

Fernelius Ford in Cheboygan is helping drivers go that extra green mile with alternative fuel vehicle options. As energy independence becomes increasingly more important, Ford is manufacturing a wide range of vehicles capable of running on fuels from American sources.

Ford's electrification strategy involves three types of electrified vehicles to provide customers with fuel economy options and help reduce CO2 emissions. Visit the Fernelius team today to view and test drive the alternative fuel vehicle type of your choice:

• Hybrids (HEVSs). These vehicles are powered partly by gasoline and partly by a battery-driven electric motor. They seamlessly switch between the gasoline engine, electric motor, or a combination of both to offer efficiency and performance. The battery is automatically recharged by the gasoline engine and through regenerative braking; they do not plug in. The Ford Escape, Mustang, Explorer, and more are available in hybrid models. 
• Plug-In Hybrids (PHEVs). These vehicles provide the option of plugging in or not. To enhance the hybrid experience and maximize battery capability, drivers can choose to plug into a standard 120V or available 240V outlet. Fully charging before driving can result in fuel savings and a reduced carbon footprint. PHEVs offer the best of both worlds, giving the driver the opportunity to drive as if in an EV for short trips, or in a hybrid for longer trips. The Ford Escape and Fusion are available in plug-in hybrid models.
• Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs). These vehicles are powered completely by a rechargeable battery, so you never need a drop of gasoline or an oil change. Key features are the electric motor, charge port, and lithium-ion battery pack. Battery electric vehicles provide a CO2-free driving experience. Drivers plug their vehicle in to fully charge the battery pack. While driving, regenerative braking also aids in charging the battery. New, all-electric Ford vehicles will be released soon. 

Ford is leading the shift to electric vehicles in America. Be part of the change by contacting Fernelius Ford today at 844-327-8314. 

Regular maintenance of your Ford is imperative; it can prevent costly repairs, reduce wear and tear of the engine, and extend the life of your car. At Fernelius Ford in Cheboygan, our certified technicians are ready to inspect, maintain, and repair your vehicle. Whether you're driving a Ford Escape Ecoboost, a turbocharged Ford Ranger, or a completely different make and model, the Fernelius team is equipped to get your car on a regular maintenance schedule.

We recommend bringing your Ford - or any other vehicle - in for service every 7,500 miles or at least once a year, whichever comes first. Service due dates can vary by model, so we recommend viewing your owner's manual for specific information. Regardless of when your car is due, you can expect Fernelius techs to complete the following items during your visit:

• Brake service. When you press your brake pedal, a complex system goes into motion to help keep you and your passengers safe. That's why it's important to have highly skilled technicians service your brakes. At Fernelius Ford, we have the right parts, tools, and technicians to take care of your every need.
• Oil service. We provide a comprehensive checkup to help ensure your vehicle operates at optimal performance. As part of this service, your Ford will undergo a multi-point inspection, oil change with synthetic blend oil, as well as a tire rotation, all at a very competitive price.
• Tire service. We offer a full lineup of tires for 16 quality name brands, including the replacement tires that fit your car, truck, or SUV. 
• Battery service. Today's vehicles are loaded with technology, which is why it's important to ensure your battery is operating at peak performance. Our techs know exactly which battery is needed for your vehicle and can help guide you through the process of installing a new battery when needed.

Call us at 877-495-1022 or schedule your next service online today. Your Ford will thank you!

Ford offers a variety of commercial vehicles to help your business run more smoothly, but how will you choose the right car, truck, or SUV? The team at Fernelius Ford in Cheboygan recommends asking yourself the following questions before you step onto the lot to view the vehicles in person.  

• What will this vehicle transport? The first step in selecting the best Ford for your company is to narrow down your options. Think about what you will be loading into the vehicle and how much space you will need. Enclosed cargo space, dump capabilities, and tool storage are all important considerations. 
• Will you be using the vehicle to tow and/or haul heavy loads? Be sure to determine your company's hauling and towing requirements to ensure your new vehicle's capabilities can accommodate your needs. If you plan to haul large items, be sure to take measurements so you are familiar with the necessary cargo volume and load heights. 
• How often will this vehicle be driven? If you anticipate lengthy, daily travel, it's a good idea to consider fuel efficiency; think about obtaining a car with an EcoBoost engine. 
• Will one automobile be enough, or do you need a line of vehicles? Depending on your business needs, you may want to create a diversified fleet with various types of cars. However, if a uniform fleet is what you're looking for, think about which Ford model will cover all your needs.

Ready to test drive your new commercial vehicle? Give Fernelius Ford a call at 877-495-1022 or visit us online at ferneliusford.com. Our experienced team is ready to get you behind the wheels of a new Ford so you can help your business thrive.

Ford vehicles are known for their quality, reliability, and critically acclaimed designs. From cutting-edge technology and high safety marks from both the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), to fuel-saving EcoBoost engines and turbocharged options, every car, truck, and SUV is built Ford Tough. At Fernelius Ford in Cheboygan, we know that one of the main reasons our customers choose a Ford vehicle is for its towing capabilities. Whether you're behind the wheel of a Ford Escape, F-150, Ranger, or something else, we offer the tips below for towing with your Ford.  

Before you tow:

• Drive your new vehicle at least 1,000 miles before you tow a trailer.
• Know your Gross Combined weight rating (GCWR) and stay at or under it while towing.
• Distribute the weight.

While towing:

• Keep in mind that the trailer must be properly loaded and balanced for optimum handling.
• Keep the center of gravity as low as possible for the best handling.
• Keep about 60% of the cargo weight in the front half of the trailer and 40% in the rear.
• Balance the load from side to side for good handling and even tire wear.
• Firmly secure the load to prevent shifting during cornering or braking, which could result in a sudden loss of control.
• Remember to allow more distance for stopping.
• If you have a manual brake controller, "lead" with trailer brakes if you can.
• If your trailer starts to sway, gradually apply the brake pedal. If your Ford vehicle features a trailer brake controller, the sliding lever should be used only for manual activation of the trailer brakes when adjusting the gain. Misuse such as application during trailer sway could cause instability of the trailer and tow vehicle
• When towing on hills, downshifting the transmission to a lower gear can help when braking on downgrades; it also provides added power for climbing hills.

Need more info on towing with your Ford? Contact the Fernelius team at 844-327-8314 today.

Fernelius Ford is excited to introduce the new, 2021 Ford Bronco Sport, an SUV that was made for adventure. Built for the thrill-seeking, sightseeing, day-tripping drivers around Cheboygan, it puts utility in the foreground with a purposeful design that includes easy-to-clean surfaces and tons of interior space, thanks to the roomy architecture of the safari-style roof. Plus, with ample ground clearance and a 1.5L turbocharged EcoBoost® Engine with 4x4, even the base model offers superior off-road capabilities. Of course, the Fernelius team knows how important it is to get behind the wheel of a vehicle that will keep both you and your passengers safe - every model of the 2021 Bronco Sport has received the IIHS TOP SAFETY PICK+ award. 

Safely travel to your next adventure destination without a second thought; the water-fording capability and high-performance, off-road, stability suspension system ensures every drive is both fun and secure. On the Badlands model, a Terrain Management System™ with up to seven G.O.A.T. modes creates a drivable road out of terrain you'd only previously imagined traversing. Plus, with seating for five with best-in-class first- and second-row head room, you'll always have space to bring friends and family along. The Ford Bronco Sport also has available best-in-class cargo volume on the Base, Big Bend, and Outer Banks models, so you'll always have room to pack all the gear you'll need on your journey. 

Ready to order your Ford Bronco Sport? Contact Fernelius Ford today at 844-327-8314 or come see us at 10459 North Straits Highway. Our team serves Alpena, Indian River, Petoskey, Mackinaw City, Onaway, Gaylord, and everywhere in between. From the moment you walk into our showroom, you'll know our commitment to customer service is second to none. We will ensure your experience with us is a great one - for the life of your vehicle.

At Fernelius Ford in Cheboygan, we know how important it is to find the best mechanic for your vehicle. In order to keep your Ford in tip-top shape, it's imperative that the mechanic you choose knows exactly how your car, truck or SUV operates. The person working on your car should be familiar with your specific vehicle, whether it's a Ford Escape, F-150, or Mustang. They will also have experience with various types of engines, from a turbocharged EcoBoost to a GTDI. Here are five things to look for when selecting a mechanic: 

1. They are easy to contact. Their number should be clearly listed on a reputable website, and if they don't answer right away, you should be able to leave a message and receive a prompt call back. The team at the Fernelius Ford service center is easily accessible. 
2. They provide you with an estimate. A good mechanic will review any damage or issues with your vehicle and provide you with an estimated repair cost, in writing. If you are not provided with this estimate, there's no way to guarantee how much you will have to pay once it's time to pick up your vehicle. 
3. They provide you with a service plan or contract. Once you have approved an estimate, your mechanic should give you a service plan or contract that outlines everything that will be done to your vehicle.
4. They don't wait for your vehicle to break down. A good mechanic will keep you abreast of any issues they anticipate; they will also discuss and recommend maintenance services to keep your car running as smoothly as possible. 
5. They are certified. A friend of a friend might offer you a great deal on mechanic services, but you should never allow an uncertified mechanic to work on your car. 

Have questions? Contact the Fernelius Ford service center today at 877-495-1022.

Every Ford owner knows that if the check engine light or another warning notification goes off in their vehicle, it's probably time to get it over to the service center at Fernelius Ford in Cheboygan. But what about other, less obvious signs? The Fernelius team wants to keep your car running as smoothly as possible, and more importantly, keep you safe while you're on the road. So suppose your vehicle shows any of the subtle signs below while driving, be sure to give us a call. It doesn't matter if you're in a Ford Escape SUV, a Mustang, or an F-150 - our certified and experienced technicians are ready to get your turbocharged, VCT engine up and running so you can get to where you need to go. 

• Unusual noises. This symptom seems obvious, but oftentimes car owners will ignore sounds that seem out of the ordinary until it's too late. Whether you're driving a sedan or a truck, with or without an EcoBoost engine, you'll learn which noises are normal so you can recognize the ones that indicate a problem. Pay attention to these sounds to ensure you can effectively describe the issue to a Fernelius technician.
• Grinding metal. This sound is on that always means something is wrong. Regardless of what kind of engine is under your hood, there should never be two metal parts grinding against each other. If you hear this noise, bring your car in for servicing immediately so an expert can diagnose and fix the problem. 
• Strange vibrations. Just as you know which noises are normal, you should also be able to tell when your car is moving or vibrating in an unusual manner. If you feel vibrations while you're behind the wheel, the issue could be anything from worn brake pads or a flat tire to a lack of oil or a failing engine joint. Bring your car to an experienced technician, and that person will be able to figure it out.

Having issues with your Ford or have other maintenance questions? Give us a call at 877-495-1022 today.

The hottest season of the year is here, and Fernelius Ford in Cheboygan wants to make sure you are turbocharged and ready to explore Michigan under the summer sun. So whether you're traveling in a Ford Escape, F-150, Fiesta, or another vehicle, we hope you enjoy some mini road trips to our favorite destinations in upper Michigan:

1. Munising Located on the southern shore of Lake Superior in the upper peninsula, this small town is known as the gateway to Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. Peaceful strolls along mossy paths will make for a romantic getaway - plus, Munising boasts five lighthouses, 15 waterfalls, and numerous other recreation areas. So whether you're hiking, kayaking, or mountain biking, you'll be sure to enjoy the view.
2. Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park Pack up the kids and drive your Ford over to some of the best hikes in the entire state. There will be more than enough to keep the whole family occupied for several days with multiple picturesque lakes and miles of trails. Lake of the Clouds, Pinkerton Creek Trail, and Beaver Creek Trail are just a few excellent hiking options for the littlest members of your vacation crew.
3. Tahquamenon Falls State Park The Fernelius team is especially fond of Tahquamenon Falls State Park, which encompasses nearly 50,000 acres spread over 13 miles. Most of the park comprises undeveloped woodland - no roads, buildings, or power lines make for a quiet summer getaway. But, of course, if you decide to head that way, Tahquamenon River and its waterfalls are not to be missed, as the Upper Falls is one of the largest waterfalls east of the Mississippi. Nearly 200 feet across with a drop of almost 50 feet, its flow of more than 50,000 gallons of water per second is a sight to behold.

Warmer days are drawing near, and at Fernelius Ford in Cheboygan, we want to be sure your vehicle is ready. Whether you've been behind the wheel of a Ford Escape, Expedition, Explorer or Ranger this winter, you'll want to take these steps to ensure your set of wheels continues to get you around safely and in style.

1. Get it washed. Who says spring cleaning is only for houses? You may not realize it, but winter weather can be tough on cars. Freezing temperatures combined with salt from the road can cause paint damage and visiting a reputable car wash and/or detailing facility can ensure your vehicle's paint remains in good condition.
2. Change your oil. Regular oil changes will keep your engine - turbocharged, EcoBoost GDTI or otherwise - running smoothly for years to come. 
3. Check your battery. After a long winter, it's important to evaluate your car's electric system and replace a weak battery if necessary. If you're taking your vehicle into Fernelius Ford for service, a battery check will be done in conjunction with your oil change.
4. Replace wiper blades and fluids. Snow and ice can damage your windshield wipers. Streaking wipers should be replaced asap. Topping off windshield wiper fluid and reapplying windshield treatments should be done simultaneously.
5. Check your tires. Now's the time to switch back to your regular tires if you had snow tires on for the winter. You should also ensure each tire is filled up to the manufacturer recommended air pressure. 

Have questions about getting your car spring ready? Give Fernelius Ford a call at 877-495-1022 or visit us online to schedule a service appointment today. In addition to routine maintenance and repairs, we also offer warranty inspections as well as a 27-point inspection to ensure your set of wheels is ready for the road. 

The coldest season of the year has arrived, and you may be wondering - is your Ford ready for winter weather? The answer is simple, whether you're behind the wheels of a Ford Escape, F-150, or something else: If you are going to be driving in snow, you need snow tires. 

Regardless of what kind of engine is under your hood - EcoBoost GDTI, turbocharged or not - you'll want to be sure your Ford is equipped to keep you safe and moving in any weather. At Fernelius Ford in Cheboygan, that is our primary concern. 

So, whether you want to stop by to view new vehicles or are just looking for reliable information, we'd like to offer the following tips about snow tires:

Even if you have all-season tires, you still need snow tires. 
Though the terms "snow tires" and "winter tires" are often used interchangeably, "all-season tires" are not the same. While all-season tires offer good traction for mild conditions, they cannot handle ice control; they can't compare to snow tires when tractioning and stopping power. 

Snow tires should not be kept on your car all year long. 
Winter/snow tires wear quickly, especially in warmer conditions. Therefore, it's best to keep them on your vehicle only during winter. A set of snow tires will typically last for three or four winters if you care for them properly and have them removed once they are no longer necessary. 

Even if you have snow tires, you might still need chains. Snow tires will usually suffice in most areas, but chains might be required in rural places that aren't plowed regularly. It's also a good idea to have them on hand if you find yourself in the middle of a severe snowstorm.

Have more questions about snow tires or other aspects of your vehicle? Call Fernelius Ford at 844-327-8314 or visit us online at ferneliusford.com. 

Vehicle Exterior

The vehicle exterior check carefully goes over the body panels and bumpers; grille, trim, and roof rack; and more.

Vehicle Interior

This part of the inspection covers airbags and safety belts, audio and alarm systems, and other interior amenities.

Vehicle Diagnostics

This includes a module system test.

Underhood

The car's engine and fluids, as well as its cooling, fuel, and electrical systems are all inspected.

Hybrid and Electric Vehicles

Additional checks are made for hybrid and electric vehicles if applicable. 

Underbody

The frame, exhaust system, brakes, tires, wheels, transmission, transaxle, differential, and transfer case are all checked here.

Convenience

Our road tests ensure the engine starts and idles properly, the vehicle steers normally, and brakes, gauges, and other parts are all operational.

The final step in the inspection ensures the owner's guide, keys, remote control, and universal transmitter are all operational and intact. The fuel tank is also filled up. 

For more information about the 172-point Ford inspection or to speak with a professional at Fernelius Ford, visit us online or call 844-327-8314.