Does Your Ford Need a New Catalytic Converter?
Your Ford’s catalytic converter is responsible for reducing pollution caused by combustion. The combustion process generates large amounts of dangerous chemicals, including carbon monoxide and hydrogen sulfide. The converter uses heat, pressure, and chemical reactions to convert these chemicals into less harmful ones. As your Ford dealer, we’d like you to know some signs that your converter could be failing.
Black Exhaust Smoke
Ordinary exhaust smoke is thin and white-gray. If your
exhaust starts to produce thick black smoke, this is usually a sign that your
converter is damaged. The black smoke has an acrid smell like fuel combined
with the rotten egg scent of hydrogen sulfide. The presence of these chemicals
means that fuel residue is passing through the converter without being changed.
Our technicians will need to examine your converter to find the cause of the
damage. The converter may have failed due to age, or it could have been damaged
by the side effects of engine problems. Depending on the cause of the problem,
we may be able to repair your converter, or we may have to replace it.
You’re Using Too Much Fuel
Increased fuel consumption can be a sign of a converter
problem. Your engine depends on a mixture of air and fuel to produce
combustion, and these elements have to mix in a precise ratio. Combustion
requires fourteen times more air than fuel for the mixture to ignite correctly
inside the cylinders. One of the functions of the converter is to ensure that
sufficient air enters the engine for combustion to take place.
Oxygen sensors connected to the converter monitor the level of air inside your
engine. If one of these sensors is damaged, it will provide the wrong
information to your computer. If your engine doesn’t receive enough air, much
of the fuel in the engine won’t ignite and will be dumped into the exhaust
system. This unburnt fuel is wasted and will cause your fuel efficiency to
drop.
Starting Problems
Most starting problems are caused by a failure with the battery, the alternator, or the starter motor. A blocked converter can also cause starting problems, as it prevents exhaust gases from leaving your engine. If your engine starts and then dies almost immediately, you probably have a blocked converter.
The combustion process will start as soon as your engine turns over, and the cylinders will produce fuel residue when their contents ignite. Due to the blockage in the converter, these exhaust gases will stay in the engine instead of being forced out. The large amount of unburnt fuel in the engine will quickly cause your engine to cut out. We can remove the blockage to fix this problem.
If you suspect you have a converter problem, call us right away at Crain Ford of Little Rock.
Image via Ford.
Your Ford car, truck, or SUV is an investment that requires regular maintenance to keep it running smoothly and safely. One of the most important maintenance services you can get for your vehicle is brake service, which provides numerous benefits. Regular brake servicing from your Ford dealer allows you to enjoy better safety, improved performance, and greater peace of mind when you’re out on the road.
1. Improved Safety
Getting regular brake checkups for your Ford is one of the
best things you can do to ensure your safety on the road. This service helps
keep your brakes in proper working condition and prevents any unexpected issues
from happening. With regular service, you can rest assured that your vehicle’s
brakes will respond when needed and be able to stop quickly and efficiently.
This can help avoid potential accidents or other dangerous situations.
Additionally, properly maintained brakes will be able to handle more intense
driving conditions, such as those experienced during severe weather.
2. Increased Longevity
Regular maintenance ensures that your brakes will last
longer, and you won’t need to replace them prematurely. During the service, the
mechanic will check all the brakes and components, inspect the brake lines and
hoses, and check the fluid levels.
By doing this, they can diagnose any issues and make sure that the brakes are
operating correctly. Regular brake repair helps keep the brakes in top
condition, meaning you don’t have to replace them as often.
3. Better Fuel Efficiency
Getting your brakes serviced can have a major impact on your
fuel efficiency. When brakes are not properly serviced, they create more
friction and require more energy to push the car forward. This can cause the
vehicle to consume more fuel than necessary.
Brake servicing will help ensure that your brakes are working as efficiently as
possible, drastically improving your car’s fuel efficiency. This can save you
money in the long run.
4. Greater Control
Getting your brakes serviced will give you greater control over your vehicle. Brakes are an important safety feature; with well-maintained brakes, you can have more confidence in your ability to stop when needed. Newer brake components are designed to offer better vehicle control, allowing for shorter stopping distances and a better grip on the road. This can make driving in wet or icy conditions safer and more manageable.
Replacing worn-out brake parts with new ones can help your vehicle stay on its intended path instead of pulling to one side when braking. Ultimately, getting brake repair will give you greater control over your car and make driving a more enjoyable experience.
Getting brake checkups for your Ford is essential for the safety and longevity of your vehicle. Brake repair is important for any car, but especially for those that have been in use for longer periods. Visit Crain Ford of Little Rock today for all your Ford needs.
Image via Ford.
Your Guide to the 2023 Ford Ranger
Ford’s mid-sized Ranger is a handsome pickup with excellent capabilities and tons of customizability, including its two-door SuperCab or four-door SuperCrew body styles. The truck offers various off-road packages, plus advanced technology. Here’s what you’ll want to know about the 2023 Ford Ranger!
Power and Handling
All of the Ranger’s trims come standard with a 2.3L
turbocharged inline-4 engine developing 270 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque.
Its twin-scroll design aids in eliminating turbo lag. Power delivery is swift
and smooth with the help of the 10-speed SelectShift automatic transmission,
featuring wide gear ratios and three overdrive gears. With its well-tuned
independent front suspension, the truck feels responsive and surprisingly agile
through turns.
When off-roading, the Ranger’s available 4×4 system, and electronic-locking
rear differential allow you to conquer tough trails with ease. An available FX4
Off-Road Package adds highly durable skid plates and a suspension setup that
has been further optimized for off-road use.
Towing and Hauling
The Ranger displays some of the best towing ability in its
class, with a maximum capacity of 7,500 pounds when equipped with the Trailer
Tow Package, which comes with a Class IV hitch and a 4/7-pin connector.
SuperCrew models can carry up to 1,818 pounds in its bed, while the SuperCrew
carries up to 1,905 pounds. Selecting the Bed Utility Package adds a 12-volt
outlet to the bed and a drop-in bedliner for increased durability.
Interior
Both the SuperCab and SuperCrew configurations provide ample
space for passengers, with the latter adding an extra seat for a total of five.
The front bucket seats and rear bench seats in XLT models are available with
Miko suede upholstery. In the Lariat, seating is available in genuine leather
trim with contrast stitching. Additional amenities include dual-zone automatic
climate control, ambient lighting, and an 8-way, power-adjustable driver’s
seat.
Under the rear seats is a hidden storage compartment for keeping personal
belongings secure and out of sight.
Technology
XL models come standard with a smart-charging USB port, Bluetooth streaming audio, and mobile 4G LTE Wi-Fi internet access with FordPass Connect, which allows connection for up to ten devices. Optional on the XL and standard on the XLT and Lariat trims is Ford’s intuitive Sync 3 8-inch touchscreen system offering support for Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, SiriusXM satellite radio, and voice-activated navigation with live traffic updates.
An available Bang & Olufsen 660-watt, 10-speaker premium audio system enhances your favorite tunes with crisp trebles and deep bass.
Good looks, strong performance, and an inviting cabin make the Ranger the ideal mid-sized pickup truck! Get in touch with Crain Ford of Little Rock today and schedule your test drive!
Image via Ford.
Introducing the 2023 Ford F-150
The 2023 Ford F-150 is a unique truck that’s ready for tough jobs and off-road adventures, while also offering a comfortable cabin with luxurious features throughout. Not only can you take this truck cross-country with a 14,000-pound trailer in tow, but you can also use it as a mobile workstation, thanks to its many available productivity features. So if you haven’t driven this impressive full-size pickup yet, here’s every reason why you shouldn’t wait.
Performance
This edition of the F-150 gives drivers a wide range of
engines to choose from, with both V6 and V8 options available. Included in this
group is a 430-horsepower Full Hybrid 3.5-liter V6, as well as a supercharged
5.2-liter V8 that produces 700 horses.
While most models come standard with a 4×2 powertrain, four-wheel drive is also
offered, while the standard Selectable Drive Modes terrain management system
that comes with both powertrains offers a few additional terrain-tackling modes
for 4×4-equipped models.
Design
Inside the F-150, there’s room for up to six passengers,
depending on which cab size you choose. For cargo, extra space can be found in
the rear under-seat storage containers, while the dual-zone climate control,
heated leather seats, and ambient lighting features set the mood to make every
drive more comfortable.
Outside the truck, you’ll find a stylish yet bold appearance with both two- and
four-door models available. There’s also an available high-strength
power-operated tailgate in the back, which can be used as a sturdy work surface
or dropped with the push of a button from your key fob.
Technology
As the F-150’s tech hub, the SYNC infotainment system
delivers everything from hands-free calling to turn-by-turn navigation
instructions. When you need to look something up online, you can quickly
connect to the in-cabin 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot.
If you plan to use this truck for hauling cargo, you can weigh it in the bed
with the Onboard Scales feature. Then there’s Ford BlueCruise, which can give
you the full autonomous-driving experience by taking over steering, braking,
and acceleration on select areas of highways.
Safety
With Ford Co-Pilot360 on board, safety features like Pre-Collision Assist, Lane-Keeping System, and the Blind Spot Information System (BLIS) all work in tandem to alert you to hazards on the road while keeping the vehicle centered within its lane.
For off-road journeys, there’s the 360° camera system, which employs four attached cameras at each end of the truck to help you see and avoid things, such as large rocks or small animals.
Versatile, rugged, and ready for action, the 2023 F-150 combines performance with luxury to suit every type of driver. To see all this innovative pickup has to offer, stop by and visit us at Crain Ford of Little Rock today, and feel free to ask for a test drive once you’re here.
Image via Ford.
If you need a break from the hustle and bustle of everyday
life, a tourist attraction might be just what the doctor ordered. Relaxing in a
different environment can help you clear your head and escape stress. There are
quite a few tourist attractions near Little
Rock, AR. You can find anything from museums to historical sites to
botanical gardens.
William J. Clinton Library and Museum
If you are a fan of former President Clinton, the William J.
Clinton Presidential Center is one of the best attractions in Little Rock.
While there are plenty of presidential libraries around the country, this one
is different in that it’s devoted to President Clinton’s entire career, not
just his term in the White House. There are exhibits detailing Clinton’s
upbringing as well as his time as Governor of Arkansas.
There are also other exhibits that discuss modern political issues. The Clinton
Library is open every day except for Mondays. It is closed on all federal
holidays. Admission is free. The best time to visit is during the spring and
fall. The library is open until 6 pm during these seasons, which is great if
you have a full day planned in the Little Rock area and plan to visit the
library after the sun goes down.
Arkansas State Capitol
The Arkansas State Capitol is a large red brick building
that stands as a symbol of Arkansas’s rich history. The building is full of
artwork and sculptures, as well as informative panels that show how the state
government works. The building is very impressive, but it is also very easy to
tour.
You can walk through the entire building in about 30 minutes. It is a very
family-friendly attraction. The Arkansas State Capitol is open every day except
for Thanksgiving and Christmas Day. The building is closed from 12 pm to 2 pm
for lunch. Admission is $7 for adults and $2 for children.
Museum of Discovery
If
you have kids or are just a fan of science and technology, the Museum of
Discovery is a great place to visit. There are over 100 hands-on exhibits
throughout the building, including a dinosaur exhibit, science labs, and a
kids’ play area.
There is something at the museum for everyone. The Museum of Discovery is open
every day except for Thanksgiving and Christmas Day. It is closed on New Year’s
Day.
Visiting these three attractions is a great way to see an array of local sites
in Little Rock, each of which will offer a unique and memorable experience. If
you’re planning a trip in and around Little Rock, the Ford Escape S is the
ideal companion to explore the region’s attractions. Stop by Crain Ford of Little
Rock and find out what we have to offer you from our incredible showroom
of new and used cars.
Ever since Ford held the first national safety forum in
1955, our cars have pioneered safety-conscious design and technology. Today, a
wide range of active car
safety features are available on all Ford models, so here are some of the
systems that you can ask about next time you visit your Ford dealer.
1. Pre-Collision Assist With Automatic Emergency Braking
No matter how carefully you scan the road ahead, it’s
impossible to guarantee that other people won’t present an unexpected hazard.
As part of Ford’s Co-Pilot 360 technology, the automatic emergency braking
system uses scanners to alert you to vehicles or pedestrians in the road ahead.
And if there isn’t time for you to react, the car will apply the brakes for you
to ensure that you avoid a collision.
2. Lane-Keeping System
By scanning the road to identify your position in the lane, this system will
ensure that a moment’s inattention won’t mean that your car drifts into
traffic. It features an alert to let you know when you’re too close to the edge
of the lane. And if it sees that you’re repeatedly having trouble staying
between the lines, it’ll prompt you to take a break.
3. Auto High-Beam Headlights
When you’re concentrating on driving in the dark, it’s easy
to forget to dim your high beams for oncoming traffic. To stop you from running
the risk of dazzling oncoming drivers, Ford’s automatic headlights will adjust
the beam if it senses that another car is approaching. It’ll also switch the
headlights on to an appropriate level if it identifies poor lighting
conditions.
4. Blind Spot Information System
At some stage, every driver has been taken by surprise by
another vehicle lurking in their blind spot in an adjacent lane. The Ford BLIS
system will alert you to any vehicles beside you, and comes with a
cross-traffic alert to let you know if anyone is approaching as you reverse out
of a parking space. There’s also an available trailer coverage system that will
let you know if there’s another car alongside your trailer.
5. Intelligent Adaptive Cruise Control
Ford’s
adaptive cruise control system is packed full of features to keep your driving
safe and stress-free. This includes lane-centering to ensure that you’re
precisely between the lines. There’s also speed-sign recognition that adjusts
the car’s speed for you, and stop-and-go technology that slows the car in
preparation for upcoming traffic.
The BlueCruise feature takes this a step further, allowing you hands-free
driving in 130,000 miles of blue zones on American roads while monitoring with
cameras to ensure that your eyes stay on the road.
Whatever’s important to you in a car, your safety on the road is the most crucial
factor of all. Ford’s advanced systems are designed to ensure that you’re fully
aware of your surroundings and always have a helping hand behind the wheel. Visit us at Crain Ford at Little
Rock to find out more or to discover how they feel on a test drive.
5 Car Maintenance Tips Every Ford Owner Can Use
It’s no secret that a car is a significant investment. Regular car maintenance at your Ford dealer is important and can help you avoid costly repairs. Here are some tips to help you keep your vehicle running smoothly!
Tire Inflation
Keeping your tires properly inflated improves safety and
helps your tires last longer. Under-inflated tires can cause poor gas mileage,
uneven tire wear, and poor handling. A good rule of thumb is to check the
pressure in your tires once a month using a portable tire gauge. You can find
out how much pressure they need at home by looking at the side of the tire or
checking the inside of your car door.
Get a Tune-Up
A well-maintained engine runs more efficiently, which means
you’ll use less gas and save money on repairs down the line. Getting a tune-up
can identify minor problems early and help avoid significant repairs down the
road.
During a tune-up, your technician will inspect the injection and emission
systems and replace the air filters and spark plugs. Car fluids, belts, and
hoses are also checked, along with other major vehicle components and systems.
Wiper Maintenance
Don’t forget about windshield wiper maintenance! If your
wipers are not working well enough to clear off raindrops and snow from your
windshields while driving, they’re probably due for replacement. Driving with
worn-out or damaged wipers can lead to dangerous situations if visibility is
impaired.
Get Routine Checkups
Getting routine checkups in our service department is an
easy way to avoid problems. Our certified technician will help you identify
issues before they spiral into big problems.
We will also tell you which items on your recommended maintenance plan are
coming up. The timing of maintenance items will vary by vehicle, so it’s always
a good item to look at your maintenance plan online at the Ford website or ask
the service department. Being proactive can help you plan ahead and save money.
Check Your Oil
Check your engine oil level regularly! Oil helps lubricate all the moving parts in your engine, so keeping it topped off is essential for smooth operation and long-term longevity of your vehicle. You can check the oil by removing the dipstick from its holder and wiping it clean. Then reinsert the dipstick, pull it out, and check the oil level.
These are just a few tips that will keep your car in tip-top shape. You can count on factory-trained Ford technicians and genuine Ford parts to keep your vehicle running smoothly. Schedule an appointment at Crain Ford of Little Rock, and we’ll be happy to service your vehicle and get you back on the road right away!
Image via Ford.
As the state capital and one of the most important cultural and economic centers in the American south, the city of Little Rock, AR is home to plenty of historical attractions that draw tourists from all over the country each year. If you are going on a memorable road trip around Arkansas in your new 2022 Ford Explorer Platinum, here are three historical landmarks you should visit while in Little Rock.
1. Old State House Museum
Added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1969,
the Old State House Museum of Little Rock is one of the oldest standing state
capitol buildings in the entire country, with its original structure dating
back to the 1840s. Designed and constructed by architects Gideon Shryock and
George Weigart, this building is located right along the southern banks of the
Arkansas River in the downtown area.
After government functions were transferred to the new capitol building in the
1910s, this historical construction was used as a medical school, an office
building, and a museum. Having undergone a major renovation in the 1990s, this
place is nowadays one of the main tourist attractions in the city, featuring
permanent exhibits on the history and culture of Arkansas.
2. Little Rock Central High School
Located in the southern part of the city, Little Rock
Central High School is one of the most important historical sites in the southern
United States and a place every visitor must check out while in town. Founded
in 1869, this public high school was the site in which the enrollment of nine
African American students was initially prevented due to racial segregation,
sparking a wave of nationwide protests, and ending with the intervention of
President Dwight D. Eisenhower.
Nowadays, Little Rock Central High School still functions as an educational
institution. In 1998, the Little Rock Central High School National Historic
Site was established in partnership with the National Park Service, featuring a
visitor center and permanent exhibitions on the Little Rock integration crisis
and the Civil Rights Movement.
3. Clinton Presidential Center
Encompassing an area of nearly 70,000 square feet, the William J. Clinton Presidential Library and Museum is the largest presidential library in the country, as well as a popular local attraction where visitors can learn more about the 42nd United States president through permanent exhibitions, replicas, and artifacts. This local landmark is also located near the banks of the Arkansas river and can be reached on foot from the city center.
If you are searching for a trusted local dealership offering the best new and used vehicles in town, you’re in the right place! Stop by Crain Ford of Little Rock today, check out our latest models, and take home a new or used vehicle for you and your family.
Image via Pixabay.
Is Your Ford Having Electrical Problems?
Electrical problems can occur for many different reasons, including damaged wiring, worn parts, and other problems. In Little Rock, AR, your Ford dealer can fix any of these problems for you. We’d like to tell you more about some signs of issues in your electrical system.
Electrical Glitches
Random electrical issues can occur at any time. Your radio,
for example, might suddenly stop and then continue working again. If this
doesn’t repeat itself, it’s a random, inexplicable problem. Random problems can
also be a sign that your alternator is wearing out. The alternator is a mini
electrical generator that produces power for your car.
A worn alternator produces less power than it should. As time passes and the
electrical supply reduces even further, your car will develop electrical
issues. These issues are created as your car’s computer struggles to allocate
electricity to components as needed. This results in power being taken from one
component to supply other components. We can fix this problem by replacing your
alternator.
Short Circuits
Short circuits can occur for a variety of reasons, but
they’re most common when wiring is old or damaged. Your car has over a mile of
wiring that connects all the electrical components to the electrical charging
system. These wires are protected by plastic and rubber insulation, but they
can still get damaged due to movement as you drive.
Insulation that’s worn can allow wires of different voltages to touch. When
this happens, the electrical current in the wiring will follow a different path
than it’s supposed to. A short can damage your electrical system, and even
cause a fire if a higher voltage current flows into wiring that’s not designed
to withstand it. Our technicians can test your wiring and replace any worn or
damaged sections.
Damaged Spark Plugs
Spark plugs are used to ignite the fuel-air mix in the cylinders. A spark plug is attached above each cylinder, and it ignites the fuel-air mix in a cylinder as soon as the mixture has been compressed sufficiently. This ignited triggers combustion and provides the force to move your car. On average, plugs will last for 100,000 miles before they need to be replaced.
Plugs can fail due to damage, for example from carbon buildup caused by a fuel-rich engine. A failed spark plug will misfire, which prevents the contents of the cylinder from igniting. If a misfiring problem continues, it can lead to engine damage. Our technicians can test your spark plugs and replace any worn or damaged ones.
If you experience any electrical issues, call our service department at Crain Ford of Little Rock. Our Ford-trained experts will swiftly fix the problem for you.
Image via Ford.
Brake pads are an essential part of any car and must be replaced regularly. If you’re unsure whether it’s time for a new set of disc pads, there are some signs you can check. In this blog post, we’ll discuss common indicators that you need to visit your Ford dealer and change your disc brakes.
Thin Brake Pads
If you’ve ever wondered whether you need to replace your
braking pads, one way to tell is by checking their thickness. If your brake
pads don’t have a wear indicator, you can measure the thickness of the pad to
determine when they’ve reached the end of their lifespan. If it’s less than 1/4
inch thick, it’s time for new pads.
Wrapped Rotors
Examining the state of the brake rotor is another approach
to determine whether your discs need to be replaced. The rotor is what the
brake pad grabs onto when you press the pedal. Therefore, it wears down at the
same rate as the disc pad. If you see excessive grooves or cracks in the rotor,
it’s a sign that you need new braking pads. So if you’re noticing any of these
signs, it’s time to head to your nearest auto shop for a replacement.
Burning Smell
If you notice a burning smell coming from your car when you
step on the brakes, it’s likely that your brake pads are wearing down and need
to be replaced. When brake pads wear down, they can create a lot of friction
and heat. The friction can cause the metal on the pads to break down, leading
to a burning smell. If you notice this, taking your car in for service is
essential.
Squealing Sound
Anyone who has ever driven a car is familiar with the screeching sound it makes when you accidentally press the brake pedal too firmly. While this noise is undoubtedly annoying, it also serves a vital purpose; it’s a sign that your brake pads need to be replaced.
This noise is caused by a metal indicator attached to the disc pad. When the braking pad gets thin, the metal indicator rubs against the rotor, creating a squealing sound. If you hear this noise, it is crucial to have your brakes checked as soon as possible to avoid further damage.
If you’re not sure whether it’s time for a new braking pad installation, don’t worry. There are signs that will let you know it might be time to visit your dealer and get the job done. And if you do need new pads installed, our team is more than happy to help. Contact us at Crain Ford of Little Rock today to schedule an appointment.
Image via Ford.
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