First Choice Ford

Visit Our Website Like Us On Facebook Follow Us On Twitter Our staff at First Choice Ford Rock Springs would like to welcome you to our site. We are an authorized Ford and Lincoln dealership. At First Choice Ford we offer superior sales and service for our valued customers. We are committed to serving our customers and our community. Thank you for visiting. If you have any questions feel free to contact us or stop by our convenient location.

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Monthly Checklist for Smart Vehicle Maintenance

Most of your vehicle maintenance tasks should be left to the professionals, ensuring your car or truck is safe and reliable. But smart drivers schedule a quick monthly maintenance check of their own to make sure the vehicle is operating well. Regular inspections help you stay on top of wear and tear and give you a heads up when problems arise. Run through this checklist once a month and keep your car or truck in tip-top shape.

Driver's Monthly Inspection Checklist

   ✓ Tires - Pick up a tire gauge at the local hardware store and check your tire pressure at least once a month. You'll also want to look for any objects embedded into the tire (like nails) and watch for uneven tread wear patterns.

   ✓ Fluid levels - Open up the hood and check the various fluid levels, including oil, coolant, transmission, and power steering fluid. Keep an eye on the driveway and garage floor for signs of fluid leaks as well, paying careful attention to the color of the puddles. Black fluid signifies an oil leak, pink fluids often mean automatic transmission leaks and clear or brownish fluids could mean either the brake fluid or the power steering fluid is leaking. Engine coolants tend to be a bright yellowish green.

   ✓ Battery - Watch for corrosion build up on the battery terminals.

   ✓ Brakes - While you're on the road and in a traffic-free area, test your brakes by applying pressure gradually over a flat stretch. Note whether the vehicle swerves one way or the other while braking. A similar test can also help you gauge the wheel alignment - take your foot off of the brakes and make a note of any pulling, wandering or swerving.

This simple checklist will alert drivers to potential problems, saving you time and money. Get in the habit of checking your car or truck monthly for smart vehicle maintenance on any make or model.

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Buying a New Car FAQs | What To Expect From a New Car Warranty

When buying a new car, shoppers often consider the appearance, safety and driving experience first. But the details of a new car warranty are well worth a closer look, and may help consumers find the best value and quality available at their local car lots.

What does a typical car warranty cover? And what about extended warranties? Are these additional costs worth the coverage?

Standard Warranty Coverage

A basic new car warranty covers a period of time (often three years) or an odometer reading distance (often 40,000 miles). The factory warranty coverage expires once either of those conditions have been met.

Some manufacturers also offer extended coverage on the powertrain, spread over a longer period of time and longer distance limitations. Most powertrain warranties provide five years of coverage, or 60,000 miles, on vehicle transmission and engine components.

Extended Warranties

Any vehicle recalls and issues that fall under the basic warranty will be repaired at no cost to you. Once you move beyond those limitations all repair costs become your responsibility. Extended warranties provide additional coverage, tailor-made to your concerns and offering several levels of protection.

Extend the warranty on your new car’s powertrain, or opt for comprehensive coverage on hundreds of parts. These programs cost a substantial amount of money initially, but using a deductible system, extended warranties can save you major money later on. Weigh the options for your own situation – and be sure to choose an extended warranty that suits your lifestyle and driving habits.

You may opt for rust coverage warranty protection as well, to ensure the vehicle body lasts as long as the engine. All of these additional investments add value to your car, but only if you’re comfortable and convinced of that value. Otherwise a standard factory warranty is adequate.

Ask your car dealership about the new car warranty coverage provided when buying a new car. Compare different manufacturers and consider extended warranty coverage to ensure your new vehicle offers optimum protection for today and into the future.

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Is It Smart to Use Aftermarket Parts for Vehicle Maintenance?

Drivers are faced with a decision when the need for vehicle maintenance and car repair comes up. Some automotive shops offer aftermarket parts, often at a reduced cost. But using these components may end up altering your vehicle's warranty and performance. Is it smart to use aftermarket parts for vehicle maintenance, and what can result?

Cheaper Isn't Always Better

Aftermarket parts are replicates of the original manufactured automotive components. Your mechanic may have ready access to these parts, while ordering the genuine or original equipment manufacturer (OEM) parts can carry a lead time, forcing your mechanic to wait on delivery. But it's important to understand that many vehicle warranties specify the use of original components, invalidating your coverage should aftermarket parts be used.

What does this mean for you? Read through your owner's manual before approving the work order. It's wise to find out about warranty information on the aftermarket part as well, should you decide to use it. Many of these products offer limited warranties in exchange for lower upfront costs, but that route may cost you more if the part needs to be replaced more often.

Performance Issues

The performance of your vehicle can be affected by an aftermarket part as well. Reduced gas mileage, less acceleration and poor handling may result. Ford and Lincoln vehicles, for instance, are designed for optimum performance with Ford Original Equipment or Motorcraft parts. This gives you the option to purchase readily available and affordable parts made specifically for your vehicle.

Take good care of your investment by using only approved automotive parts when repairs arise. Aftermarket parts may be attractive, based on upfront costs and immediate availability. But if your car or truck will run better and last longer using approved parts, the decision is clear.

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Advantages of SecuriCode Keyless Entry on Your New Car

The latest models of Ford cars and trucks come equipped with SecuriCode keyless entry system. Using a preset five-digit code on the convenient keypad, drivers can easily and safely enter their vehicle without the use of a key or fob. Modern, simple and user friendly, this feature improves on keyless entry systems used in the past.

Why Bother With a Keyless Entry System

Experts agree that keyless entries provide greater safety to drivers, by allowing them to enter the vehicle without fumbling for keys. In a dark parking lot, or with your arms full of shopping bags, it takes only seconds to enter your code into the sleek keypad. The driver’s door unlocks instantly, and drivers can get into a more secure atmosphere before needing to search for the ignition keys.

SecuriCode also opens your trunk, providing quick access to that space without the necessity of keys or fobs. The newest design incorporates a keypad with improved sensitivity and remains hidden when not in use. Certain vehicles mount the SecuriCode keypad into the exterior B-panel, while others keep it in the traditional location – on the driver’s door.

Five Benefits of Keyless Entry Systems

The advantages of this feature vary, depending on your habits and lifestyle. But every driver can realize the basic benefits, including:

Quicker entry into your vehicle, providing greater levels of safety

Convenient access to trunk

Allows fast access to the interior of your car while you’re at home, without needing to dig out the keys

Provides access when your keys are locked in the vehicle

Five-digit code is difficult to break, providing added security

SecuriCode keyless entry systems are a value-added feature on modern vehicles. Ask about whether your new Ford car, truck or SUV is equipped with this convenient feature that offers smarter performance and improved safety.

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How Investing in Vehicle Maintenance Actually Saves You Money

You’ve heard the old adage that an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. In the case of vehicle maintenance, it’s actually worth much more. Investing in regular maintenance check ups and service will save you money. Vehicle maintenance also provides peace of mind by keeping your car or truck in peak condition for better reliability.

Fuel Efficiency

Experts estimate that nearly every major mechanical component in your vehicle affects fuel efficiency. So if you want to control costs at the gas pump, it pays to take care of those mechanical systems. Your owner’s manual will have a recommended schedule for checking and maintaining the cooling system, brakes, tires, engine, ignition system, emission controls and drive-train. Follow those guidelines for optimum fuel efficiency and savings.

Taking the time to complete a quick overview on your vehicle every month is an easy way to maintain your fuel mileage. Check the tire pressure on a regular basis, especially during the winter months when tire pressure can drop and drag fuel efficiency down with it.

Maintain Value 

Keep an accurate service record for your car or truck and pass it onto the next buyer. This paperwork also backs up the money spent on vehicle maintenance, which should increase the value of your vehicle when compared to others of the same make, model and year. 

It pays to have the same professionals look after your vehicle maintenance every time. This consistency allows you to keep accurate records. A mechanic that is familiar with your car or truck will pay close attention to small issues and often catches problems long before they arise by putting preventive measures in place.

In that case, an ounce of prevention using vehicle maintenance is well worth the cost of hiring a professional mechanic. Remember that maintenance saves you money in several different ways, making it a wise investment all around.

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Choosing the Best Truck Bed Covers For Your New Truck

Tonneau covers provide security and protection for your pick up truck. But shopping for the best truck bed covers can get confusing. Do you need a hard tonneau or a soft style that rolls up in a flash? Should you opt for hinged covers, or are retractable models easier to handle? The options can quickly become overwhelming.

You need to figure out which style works for you, and look for a model manufactured to fit your vehicle. Take the time to consider how you will use the bed of your truck, and what types of things will be stored or carried in that space.

Advantages of Hard Tonneau Covers

Some drivers prefer a hard truck bed cover for security and durability. These products come in hinged and folding styles, and can be made from fiberglass or heavy duty plastic. Fiberglass styles are sold in colors to match or complement your vehicle’s paint, while plastic models often come in black or charcoal.

Plastic hard truck bed covers are an economical way to protect the items stored in the back of your pick up. Hard covers provide a higher level of security as well, and can be locked. Fiberglass covers cost a little more, but add value to your vehicle and create a sleeker, sporty look for any truck model.

Advantages of Soft Tonneau Covers

Soft tonneau covers are often made from thick vinyl and come with reinforced seams on the edges. They roll up or retract, depending on the manufacturer and design. Roll up tonneau covers are inexpensive and protect your truck bed from rain, snow and sleet. They’re simple to install and even easier to operate.

Some retractable soft truck bed covers operate manually using a pullback design, but they may be powered by electronic controls or a remote control. These models provide an affordable cover with convenient operation, but do not offer the security that hard covers do.

Installing a tonneau cover on your new truck is a smart move. Choose between hard and soft truck bed covers and opt for the ideal mechanism by considering your own personal driving habits and tastes. 

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How To Buy a New Car FAQs | Why Invest in a Hybrid Car?

In an economy where every dollar counts, investing a hybrid car makes sense for many drivers. Are you a commuter with a rapidly increasing fuel bill? Or a parent constantly shuttling the family from one event to the next? From professionals to students, retirees and simply those who like to maintain control of their fuel economy, buying a hybrid car has become a wise move in terms of affordability and a comfortable drive.

Hybrid Vehicle Basics

Hybrid cars use both gas and electricity to power the vehicle, improving overall fuel economy significantly. You’ll find specifications for the fuel-powered motor, as well as details on an electric motor, since both are used in different capacities as you drive. Manufacturers combine the benefits of these engines to create a driving experience quite unlike any other.

Some hybrids use regenerative braking to maintain a charge in the Nickel-Metal-Hydride battery, cutting back on the power needs of your vehicle. You’ll fill up a tank in the same way as standard designs, although ideally you will do so much less often.

Why Buy a Hybrid?

The price of hybrids is now relatively comparable to standard vehicle prices. You can purchase a nicely equipped 4 door hybrid mid-sized sedan for less than $29,000 – only a little more than the same vehicle in a gas-powered design. When you factor in the fuel savings over time, the hybrid will very likely come out on top. And the value of hybrids remains stable, another plus for any investment.

Perhaps one of the greatest benefits of buying a hybrid is peace of mind. Since we know that the fuel economy of a well built hybrid car is as much as twice that of a standard design, gas price fluctuations become less important. And lining up at the gas station becomes much less frequent.

Choose one of the leading hybrid cars and book a test drive. You’ll be amazed at how well these vehicles handle. And you’re bound to appreciate the fuel savings realized when you invest in a hybrid car.

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Car Maintenance FAQs | Why Do I Need to Replace the Ball Joints on My Vehicle?

Ball joints are a vital component in the suspension system of your car. Worn ball joints tend to make a lot of noise, letting the driver and the mechanic know that it’s time for a ball joint replacement.

Ball joints act as a connector in your car’s suspension system, providing flexibility and range of movement between the control arm and steering knuckle. Some vehicles have two ball joints, while others have four, depending on the type of suspension system.

What Happens When Ball Joints Fail?

You really don’t want to put off replacing your ball joints once a problem has been noted. If you hear clunking as your vehicle goes over bumps, even small bumps, it’s time to book an inspection. If your tires are wearing inconsistently or the wheel alignment needs frequent adjusting, get your vehicle in for servicing right away.

If worn ball joints are not replaced, and these small but mighty components fail, your suspension may collapse and cause your vehicle to lose control.

Each manufacturer provides a figure stating the maximum amount of ball joint wear allowed. It’s a smart move to replace the ball joints as they approach that measurement. The more wear, the more important it is to get them replaced.

Your vehicle service department will replace ball joints in pairs, both for efficiency and because these components tend to wear at the same speed. Ball joint replacement is not typically a job you can do in your garage either. This car repair requires special tools and the proper inspection process. You’ll want to trust a licensed and experienced mechanic for the job, allowing you to be confident in the safety of your vehicle.

Ball joints are just one of the small components that make up your vehicle’s suspension and steering system. Be sure to have your car in for service right away if you suspect a problem and replace the ball joints when they have been worn beyond the manufacturer’s recommendations.

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Five Steps to Making a Offer on Your New Car

Making an offer is often considered the first official step in buying a new car. Drivers need to understand about their rights as a consumer and can follow these five simple steps to make the offer process smoother.

Step 1 – Negotiate Price First, Before Considering Trade Ins and Financing

Try to hammer down the agreed upon price without complicating the process with the value of your trade in or financing details. This allows for fair negotiations on both sides and helps to keep things clear.

Step 2 – Deposits

You’ll be asked to put down a deposit with your offer as proof of your intent. This deposit may or may not be refundable should the deal fall through; find out before signing the contract.

Step 3 – Understand the Lingo

Clear communication means understanding the correct definition for all of the different terms thrown around during the offer stage, including:

· MSRP - manufacturer’s suggested retail price

·  Invoice price - what the dealer paid for the vehicle

·  Factory options – upgrades installed at the factory

·  Dealer options – upgrades added or installed by the dealership

Step 4 – Remember Any Additional Costs

Consider any additional costs you want or need to have before making an offer, since these can bump up the bottom line significantly. Common add-ons include rust proofing, upholstery protection, extended warranties and roadside assistance.

Step 5 – Read and Ask Questions

Always read the fine print on your contract or offer, and ask questions to clarify anything unclear. Be sure that all arrangements of the sale are in writing and take home a copy for your own records.

Making an offer on a new car can be simpler than purchasing a used car, as long as you know the procedure. Keep communication clear, understand the language and the contract, be ready to pay a deposit and remember all of the costs involved. With these guidelines to help, buying a new car will be smoother and more enjoyable.

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Why You Need to Keep a Vehicle Maintenance Log Book

Do you want to help your car or truck last longer without spending a dime? Keep a vehicle maintenance log book to ensure your car, truck or van is running at peak performance and to avoid unnecessary repairs and service. This simple discipline takes just a few minutes of your time, but can extend your vehicle's life significantly.

What's In a Log Book?

You need to include certain statistics and information in your vehicle maintenance log book. Start the book with "as at" data, including the year, make and model of your vehicle, as well as the current mileage.

Read through your owner's manual to better understand the recommended service schedule. Your dealership will also have information available covering the who, what, where and when of vehicle service. Attach that to the log book or keep the info together for handy reference.

Your log should include a table with basic information, like:

Description of Service Completed - for example: oil change, 20,000 mile service, tire rotation, etc.

Date of Service

Where Service Was Done - include the company or dealership name and make a note if the work was done at home

Any recommendations from the service department

You can also include more details, such as cost of the service, fuel mileage and tire pressure (which should be checked at least twice annually).

Benefits of a Vehicle Maintenance Log Book

Keeping a record of maintenance allows you to track the condition of your vehicle. You'll have an accurate gauge of how well your vehicle is being taken care of, including a record of recommendations.

When the service department lets you know that the battery needs replacement, but will hold out a few months, write it down. Then you'll have fair warning of an upcoming service and be able to make more informed decisions.

Try to keep a vehicle maintenance log book for one year, and you're likely to have a better grasp on the condition and cost of running your car, truck or van.

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How to Buy a New Car FAQs | Do You Need to Buy a 4WD Vehicle?

Many manufacturers are offering cars, crossovers and SUVs with 4WD on board. Drivers wondering how to buy a new car are faced with greater choice, including whether to leave behind the 2WD models in favor of 4WD design. This may seem like a safe and attractive option, but do you really need to invest in a 4WD vehicle?

The answer depends on where you live, where you drive and how the manufacturer incorporates 4WD into the vehicle.

Where Do You Live and Drive?

City and suburban dwellers that spend most of their drive time on urban streets are well served by 2WD vehicles. Even in nasty winter driving, this design provides the power required to keep your family safe on the road. With a quality set of winter tires and defensive driving tactics, your front wheel drive or rear wheel drive vehicle will be able to handle urban roads all year long.

If you regularly venture beyond the city, and drive over back roads, country lanes and dirt roads, 4WD may be a better choice. In comparison to most city streets, these rural roads are poorly maintained, especially during the winter and early spring. Rely on a 4WD design to get you their safely and comfortably across rougher rural roads.

Different 4WD Designs

Manufacturers offer various designs of 4WD, including:

Automatic 4WD (A4WD) uses sensors to activate the 4WD feature when required

Part-time 4WD operates on driver demand and comes with two speed options

 Full-time 4WD may or may not offer a part-time option and works well in all types of driving conditions

All Wheel Drive (AWD) is a full-time 4WD with no options to disengage or switch to 2WD

Shift of the Fly 4WD allows the driver to engage 4WD options while driving, most often once the vehicle has surpassed a certain speed limit

Depending on your preferences and the vehicle in question, one of these options may be a good compromise for city drivers that venture onto back roads. Ask the dealer about this option and learn how to buy a new car that suits your driving habits perfectly.

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Who Pays For Car Maintenance on a Leased Vehicle?

You have a variety of financing options when buying a new car. Cash purchases, financing arrangements and leasing contracts provide buyers with the flexibility and options necessary to get them on the road. But drivers leasing their vehicle may be confused about additional costs like vehicle maintenance. Who pays for car maintenance on a leased vehicle? Will the buyer need to cover these costs in every circumstance, and does the dealership have any responsibilities in terms of automobile service and warranty?

Driver Responsibilities

Drivers are responsible for maintaining the leased vehicle at peak performance. Regular automotive service appointments, replacement parts and any necessary repairs will come from the driver's pocket, not the leasing company's. If drivers avoid these costs and return the vehicle in poor condition they can expect to pay repair charges and other penalties when turning in the car or truck.

Any collision repairs done on the vehicle should be handled by a dealership or approved collision repair center. Lease contracts often state that manufacturer's parts must be used during repairs, as opposed to less expensive aftermarket parts. All repair costs are the responsibility of the driver, or the insurance companies involved in the accident.

Dealership or Leasing Company Responsibilities

The dealership handles all warranty issues and any vehicle recalls. Manufacturers generally contact the dealerships or leasing company regarding recalls, who then pass the information on to the drivers of leased vehicles. An arm's length leasing company may arrange for warranty or recall service appointments, or simply provide the contact information and expect you to make arrangements with the dealership.

Be aware that drivers must respond to recall notices in good time, or risk facing penalties and repair charges at the end of the term.

Read through your leasing contract carefully to understand the details and responsibilities. Drivers must pay for car maintenance on a leased vehicle, and may be responsible for arranging warranty and recall service appointments. Leasing works in many cases, but it's important for drivers to fully understand their obligations.

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Calculating Car Insurance Costs When Buying a New Car

Budgeting for a new car allows you to choose the ideal make and model for your lifestyle. Besides the typical costs associated with buying a new car, you also need to consider the additional cost of car insurance. This monthly or annual bill could have a serious effect on your budget and calculating the amount should help you make a better buying decision.

Why the Cost of Car Insurance Matters

Monthly car payments cover your lease or financing obligations. For budgeting purposes add in the money you'll spend on fuel and any maintenance costs. Licensing fees tend to be manageable and only come up once a year, so they will not have a major affect on the monthly cost of your vehicle. But car insurance does.

If you can afford the monthly payment of the new car, but can't cover the car insurance costs without blowing the budget, it's a good idea to consider a different model.

Factors That Affect Car Insurance Costs

There are certain options that can lower the cost of insurance, so be sure to get a quote with your preferred make and model in mind. Your driving record and location are major factors in the calculated cost, but the car makes a difference as well.

Consider the type of vehicle. Is it a luxury model or brand? You'll likely pay more for insurance, based on replacement value and where the vehicle falls on the theft list. Any car that comes equipped with a reliable anti-theft device often receive a discount on insurance. And if the vehicle will be used for towing, car pooling or other activities your insurance will likely increase to cover the additional risks.

Calculate the cost of car insurance when buying a new car to ensure an accurate budget. Purchasing a car you can afford to enjoy is a wise move in any economy.

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Top Three Warning Signs Indicating Brake Repairs Ahead

Auto maintenance includes regular service on various parts of your vehicle, from the engine to the body. Your car or truck may also encounter troubles between service appointments resulting in poor performance, a rough ride or even unsafe driving conditions. To ensure a safe drive you need to keep an eye out for brake troubles. These top three warning signs indicate that brake repairs are needed, a condition that requires immediate attention.

Noisy Braking

If you hear squeals or chirps coming from the wheels as you slow down it's time to check the brakes. Both disc and drum brakes use friction to slow down the vehicle, and normal use eventually results in wear. When metal meets metal and pressure is applied, the sounds can range from a fierce grinding noise to squealing, screeching or even chirping. Get your vehicle in for brake repairs when these noises become noticeable.

Shaking or Pulsating

Another common sign of brake wear can be felt in the steering wheel. If you detect shaking or pulsating motions while braking, it's very likely the brakes have worn beyond their usable life. Other vehicle problems may cause shaking, including alignment and tire problems. But checking the brakes at the first sign of motion is a good way to head off potential braking issues.

Stopping Distance Stretch and Pull

Do you notice a change in your vehicle's stopping distance? If it takes longer to come to a complete stop, or your vehicle moves to one side as it slows down, the brakes are in need of attention. Normal wear and tear will reduce the effectiveness of your brakes, resulting in longer stopping distances. Pulling is often a result of one set of brakes being worn down more than the other.

Brakes play a major role in your driving experience and provide a vital safety feature. Be sure to take good care of them and act fast when these warning signs appear. Better to tackle brake repairs ahead of schedule than risk the safety of your passengers and others on the road.

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2012 Ford Focus Features Better Handling and Road Connection

A long standing popular model in the Ford line-up, the Focus has been fine tuned for 2012. The newly redesigned model is ready to deliver much better connection with the road. Thanks to torque vectoring control, a high level feature generally available only on luxury vehicles, this new 2012 Ford Focus will thrill you and create a driving experience that’s second to none.

What Is Torque Vectoring Control?

When traveling around a corner in your vehicle G-forces help to create better levels of traction on the outside tires, as opposed to those hugging the curve. The Focus’ new handling system uses computer controls to sense how fast the wheels are spinning, the path of the wheels and overall traction. Torque, or turning power, is then transferred to those wheels with the highest levels of grip.

What you’ll notice is greater levels of control and responsiveness, both in foul weather and standard road conditions. Turning corners becomes exciting and ultra smooth, with little to no under-steering and precise cornering.

Improved Fuel Economy

Fans of this system also claim that it improves fuel economy, although the 2012 Ford Focus is already well ahead of the game in that regards. Boasting one of the top fuel economies in its class, the Focus takes advantage of the torque vectoring system to achieve even greater savings for you.

Computer controlled torque transfer cuts down on the power wasted when slippage and wandering occur. Your vehicle will handle better, feel more responsive and cost less to drive around in any weather. That makes the redesigned 2012 Ford Focus an even better deal. Connect to the road without disconnecting from the budget, and book a test drive to find out the difference a torque vectoring control system makes.

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Why Car Maintenance Should Include Flushing and Replacing Coolants

Car maintenance allows your vehicle to run well for a longer period of time, keeping all of the key components working together for peak efficiency and performance. Since coolants play an important role in your vehicle’s engine, it only makes sense to handle them properly during a service visit.

What Are Coolants?

Commonly referred to as antifreeze, coolants absorb heat from the engine and dissipate it safely to avoid overheating and excessive wear. The liquid consists of water and either propylene glycol or ethylene in a 1:1 ratio.

How To Handle Coolants Properly

Coolants will inevitably break down, mainly due to the surrounding temperatures. Rust inhibitors included in the liquid disappear with time, exposing the engine parts to corrosion. Even a tiny amount of corrosion build up will result in contaminated coolant, which will in turn damage and clog engine components like the heater and radiator. 

Flushing out the dirty coolants and replacing them with fresh antifreeze is the only way to stop that vicious cycle of wear.

Checking Coolant Levels

Drivers also need to check their coolant levels periodically, ensuring the system never runs dry. The owner’s manual states when to check the coolants. Remember that the coolant level changes based on the temperature of the engine. If you’re checking when the engine is cool, be sure coolant levels are sitting above the fill or minimum mark. When the engine is hot those levels should be nearing the maximum mark.

Leaks can spring up inside and outside the engine. No matter where the coolant is leaking from, you're best to have the car looked at immediately. Regular car maintenance appointments should include flushing and replacing coolants, but if you spot an issue in between service visits give your mechanic a call and get the problem looked after. Your engine will be better off.

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Tips on Buying a New Car | After the Delivery

The day you've been waiting for has finally arrived. After all of the steps involved in buying a new car, your shiny vehicle is ready for pick up. But the work isn't over just yet. In order to make the most of your investment, remember to take care of a few essentials after the delivery.

At the Dealership

You'll need to book an appointment to pick up your new vehicle, most likely with the sales staff you were originally dealing with. Be sure to bring identification and any other relevant details required to finalize the financing and licensing procedures.

Once you have the keys take the time to carefully look over your vehicle. Are all of the options and features you ordered included? How is the fit and finish of your new car? Make a note of any defects with the dealership staff, and schedule times for service or repairs if required. Do this before you leave the lot to minimize miscommunication. Most dealers want you to leave their lot 100% satisfied, and will help make that possible by going over every detail of the vehicle.

At Home

After you pull into your driveway and enjoy a few moments just sitting in your new car, it's time to get reading. Investing the time to read through your vehicle's owner's manual is worthwhile and will help you make the most of the features and options you have paid for.

The owner's manual spells out maintenance schedules, offers tips on using innovative features and outlines the type of oil and fuel your vehicle has been designed for. You'll find unique and priceless information next to very basic facts, and all of it will allow you to enjoy driving and owning your new car.

Buying a new car is a lengthy process often requiring work and patience. But when you take the time to inspect your new car at the dealership and read through the owner's manual at home the whole experience of vehicle ownership will be more fulfilling. And driving will be even more fun.

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