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.
As the leaves begin to fall and the smell of pumpkin spice fills the streets, plenty of opportunities arise to go on fantastic adventures and enjoy your favorite fall activities. Whether you are into hiking, camping, or wildlife watching, here are some great ideas to make the best of this season and spend some quality time with your loved ones without driving too far from Little Rock, AR.
1. Camping at Ouachita National Forest
A sprawling nature reserve spanning nearly two million acres
across the states of Arkansas and Oklahoma, Ouachita National Forest is a true
paradise for nature lovers and a fantastic spot for a camping trip with
friends. Established in the early 20th century by the U.S. Forest Service, this
place is considered one of the most scenic areas in the southern United States.
Boasting extensive woodlands crisscrossed by a large network of hiking trails,
Ouachita National Forest is a wonderful place to admire the changing colors of
the trees and breath some of the clean and crisp air that the season brings.
This public nature reserve features several different campgrounds with
facilities including picnic areas, flush toilets, hot showers, and fire pits.
2. Birdwatching at White River National Wildlife Refuge
Located a little under 90 miles east of downtown Little
Rock, White River National Wildlife Refuge can be reached in about one hour and
45 minutes via route US-165 and is a top-rated destination among local birders
and wildlife watchers. This nature reserve was established in the 1930s and
covers an area of over 160,000 acres on the banks of the White River.
White River National Wildlife Refuge is home to several different species of
birds including bald eagles, Canada geese, great blue herons, great egrets,
wood storks, gadwalls, rusty blackbirds, and wood ducks. Crisscrossed by
several miles of hiking and biking trails, this wildlife refuge is a place
where you can easily spend an entire weekend exploring its different areas.
3. Hiking at Lake Catherine State Park
Sitting on the shores of a 2,240-acre body of water, Lake Catherine State Park was established in the 1930s and is an excellent destination to go hiking and take a break from the routine. This public recreation area features not only an extensive network of multi-use trails but also great amenities for visitors, including boat rental shops, a horseback riding stable, picnic areas, cabins, and campsites.
If you are planning a memorable adventure this fall, the spacious and comfortable 2022 Ford Explorer Platinum has everything you need to keep you and your passengers comfortable while on the road. Visit us today at Crain Ford of Little Rock and check out this and other fantastic vehicles we have available for you.
Image via Pixabay.
Car AC Not Working? Visit Your Ford Dealer Today
If you find your car AC not working and you don’t know what to do, it can be easy to get frustrated. That’s why the team at your local Ford dealer, Crain Ford of Little Rock, has put together a quick guide on some of the reasons why your Ford’s air conditioning may be experiencing problems and what you can do to resolve your air conditioning woes.
Refrigerant Leak
One common problem that can cause your car’s AC to stop
operating effectively is a refrigerant leak. Refrigerant keeps your cabin cool
when being used properly in the air conditioning unit. However, if your car
meets an unexpected accident or otherwise suffers from damage, it can cause
issues with the car air conditioning unit’s hose connections, leaving the AC
hose to leak refrigerant from the hose’s joints and connections.
Without refrigerant running through your air conditioning system, the unit
lacks what it needs to cool your Ford’s cabin. If you notice that an oily
substance has gathered around your AC’s hose connection, chances are a
refrigerant leak is the cause of your air conditioning issues.
Burnt Fuse
Another cause of a failing car AC is a burnt fuse. If your
car air conditioning unit’s fuse is burnt, it causes the compressor to stop
working and can also cause damage to the healthy switches in the circuit board
of your car. To determine whether or not a burnt fuse is the cause of your
car’s air conditioning failure, you’ll need to replace the AC’s fuse and see if
your issues are resolved.
Faulty Compressor
The last common cause we’ll discuss here is a faulty compressor.
Your car’s compressor circulates refrigerant throughout your air conditioning
system. Without it, the refrigerant cannot circulate through the system and
you’ll never get any cold air. A car’s compressor typically goes bad due to
long periods of time without use.
Car AC Not Working? Your Local Ford Dealer Can Help
Inspecting your air conditioning unit’s hose system, fuse, and compressor and replacing them can be difficult tasks if you don’t have experience. Fortunately, whether you’re driving the popular 2022 Ford Explorer or the powerful 2022 Ford Mustang, your local Ford service center has a dedicated team of specialists who have plenty of experience dealing with these issues. These professionals also have access to replacement parts to get your air conditioning problem solved as quickly as possible.
Your family deserves a high-quality air-conditioned experience as you drive around in the family Ford. Now that you know how to deal with some of the most common car air conditioning issues, you can provide them with a cool and comfortable experience that they’ll enjoy. To get your air conditioning issues sorted, come on down to Crain Ford of Little Rock today!
Image via Ford.
A tire rotation involves swapping each tire on your Ford Explorer, Ecosport, or F-150 to a different position to increase even wear and make the tires last longer. Regular rotations at your Ford dealer have many benefits, including saving you a bundle of cash.
1. Your Tires Will Last Longer
Switching all four tires on your Ford to different positions
will ensure that the tires wear down evenly. For example, if your car’s a
front-wheel drive, the tires are used for turning and braking and wear faster
than the rear tires. Swapping the front tires to the rear, crossing the rear
tires, and mounting them to the front of your car, will ensure the tires wear
down more evenly and last longer.
Different types of cars require different rotation patterns. Your Ford
technician knows which rotation pattern to use for your specific vehicle.
You’ll also find information on rotations in your car’s owner’s manual.
2. You’ll Be Safer on the Road
The best thing about regularly switching your tires is that
it will make your car safer on the road. Regular rotations ensure the tread
depth is the same and the wear is even across all four tires. When your tires
wear evenly, and the tread depth is the same on all the tires, it will increase
traction when you accelerate, brake, and turn, especially on wet and slippery
roads.
3. You’ll Have a Smoother Ride
The tires on your car don’t wear down at the same rate, and
when they are not rotated regularly, they wear unevenly. Uneven wear causes
vibrations that you will feel through your steering wheel.
If you don’t swap your tires, the vibrations will cause damage to your car’s
components and affect the wheel alignment and balancing. To reduce the risk of
vibrations and damage to your vehicle, ask your Ford technician to switch your
tires every time you take your vehicle for an oil change.
4. You’ll Save Money
To save money, rotate your tires at regular intervals to
make them last longer. All four tires will wear down at the same rate, and you
will not have to replace them as often, saving you a lot of money in the long
run.
5. Your Tires Will Be Thoroughly Checked
Another great benefit of regular rotations is tire inspections. The Ford technician will check each tire, including your spare, to determine the condition of the tires. The technician will check the tire tread depth, inspect each tire for cuts, cracks, and bulges, and inflate your tires to the proper pressure levels.
Ask your Ford technician to rotate your tires regularly; they’ll last longer, increase your vehicle’s performance, and make you safer on the road. Best of all, you’ll save a ton of cash on tires. Drive to Crain Ford of Little Rock today to reap the benefits of a regular rotation.
Image via Ford.
Little Rock, AR has a lot to offer when it comes to theaters and performance venues. But if you’ve exhausted all of them and want to check out someplace new, the towns just outside of this capital city have just as much entertainment and excitement to offer.
The Weekend
This small black-box non-profit community theater in Little
Rock offers NYC vibes and weekend performances. The Weekend promises to make
you: “Laugh, Cry, Think, Act” with its socially conscious live performances
that aim to foster kindness, respect, and honor for one another. This unique
venue is entirely run by volunteers and also offers acting classes and youth
educational seminars that teach acting skills and build confidence.
The Studio
The Studio is another Little Rock performance venue with a
purpose that seeks to “grow” each member of their audience. The Studio isn’t
you’re average theatrical venue and often puts a spin on classical works with
re-imagined settings and scenery.
They hand pick new and diverse Broadway shows that draw local crowds in to
experience laughter, great music, and the kind of creative energy that makes
them feel like they belong.
The Rep
This 34–seat venue in downtown Little Rock offers culture
and joy through its performances that aim to help the audiences interpret and
make peace with the world around them and those who inhabit it.
The Rep was founded in 1976 to present the quality theatrical performance
produced by award-winning local and national artists that uphold the highest
artistic standards.
The Joint
There’s something for everyone plus a lot of laughs each
month at The Joint, located in North Little Rock’s downtown Argenta Arts
District. You’ll find regular comedic theater productions by The Main Thing
comedy troupe.
This three-person team performs two-act comedy shows on Friday and Saturday
nights. The Joint also features stand-up comedy nights, improv shows, cabaret,
and musical acts throughout the week.
Simmons Bank Arena
Also located in North Little Rock, Simmon Bank Arena
features some of the biggest acts in America and has become a significant
destination along the Arkansas River. You’ll find the hottest musical, comedy,
and children’s performers featured here.
The 18,000-seat arena has featured acts like The Rolling Stones, Bruce
Springsteen, and Faith Hill. Simmons Bank Arena, originally opened in 1999 as
Alltel Arena, also has an additional 28,000 sq. ft. of conference space that
can be rented for meetings, exhibitions, or conventions.
The Ford Mustang’s sleek look is a great way to get around town in style while
visiting these hip entertainment venues. Stop by Crain Ford of Little Rock
and ask one of our attentive associates to take you on a test drive today.
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