What Happens During a Routine Transmission Service?
So, your car starts to make a weird noise when you shift gears, and it’s been slipping out of gear for the last few days. On top of that, your check engine light is on! You may have transmission issues, so it’s prudent to visit your local Ford dealer in Little Rock, AR for routine transmission service as soon as possible.
What Does Your Ford Dealer in Little Rock, AR Do During a Routine Transmission Service?
We’ll schedule your vehicle for service, and while this
might seem like bad news it could be much worse. Although many drivers dread
costly auto repairs, routine service could help prevent larger complications
down the road. Here’s what happens during a routine service:
1. Perform an Inspection
First, we will help you to be as prepared for this as
possible. We’ll provide you with a list of all the parts and fluids that need
to be changed during your visit. You can even find out how much the service
will cost before you have to visit, to give you time to prepare.
2. Change the Transmission Fluid
The fluid is what enables your transmission to transfer
power from your engine to your wheels, so it’s important that this fluid is in
good condition. Over time, this fluid can become dirty and contaminated, so we
will replace it with a new one.
3. Inspect the Drivetrain for Signs of Damage or Excessive Wear
The drivetrain is made up of all the parts that transfer
power from your engine to your wheels — this includes not only the transmission
but also the driveshaft and axle. We will look for anything that could lead to
further problems, such as loose bolts or worn-out parts.
Every Ford model has a factory-recommended Ford service schedule with mileage intervals and the required maintenance needed to ensure optimal performance. To help Ford owners even further with scheduled maintenance, the Intelligent Oil-Life Monitor reminds drivers when an oil replacement is due. With regular maintenance, you will ensure that your Ford always performs at its best.
1. Engine Oil and Filter Replacement Intervals
The oil in your Ford keeps the engine clean and
well-lubricated. The Ford Company recommends an oil and filter replacement
every 5,000 to 10,000 miles, depending on your driving style, road conditions,
and your vehicle’s engine type. If you operate your vehicle under severe
driving conditions, more frequent oil and filter replacements are required.
2. The Intelligent Oil-Life Monitor (IOLM) Reminder
The IOLM assists Ford owners by calculating precisely when
an oil change is due. When the monitor reaches 5%, schedule an oil change at
your Ford dealership. It’s best not to wait until the IOLM counts down to 0% to
avoid damage to the engine. The Ford technician will reset the IOLM after each
oil and filter replacement.
3. Maintenance Intervals and Required Services
The following factory-recommended service intervals and
required inspections and replacements are general guidelines. Look in your
owner’s manual for the recommended service intervals for your Ford model, or
speak to a Ford technician.
If you’re an avid cyclist searching for some great biking trails, you’ll find excellent paths in and around Little Rock, AR. There are plenty of paths and rugged trails to explore, whether you’re a beginner or an advanced cyclist.
1. Allsopp Park
This impressive, scenic park is ideal for your next cycling excursion. Allsopp Park offers wonderful cycling trails and hiking paths, fields to play ball, and tennis courts. There’s a large pavilion that’s perfect for large family events or a relaxing picnic. It’s also a great spot to explore nature, birdwatching, and hiking with the family. Pets are also welcome.
2. Boyle Park
Boyle Park is a large, 250-acre recreational space that offers extensive mountain bike trails, open areas for sports, walking paths, and scenic streams for fishing. It’s a wonderful place to spend the day and bring a camera to capture amazing photos. Boyle Park is a quiet, relaxing spot to enjoy on your own or with family or friends.
Knowing when your Ford needs an alternator repair can be tricky. The signs are often unclear, and the issue could be something else entirely. Once your alternator starts malfunctioning, it can cause some serious problems with everything else on the car. Therefore, you shouldn’t ignore an alternator diagnostic the next time you visit your local Little Rock, AR dealer. This guide will discuss six warning signs that indicate when your car may need a new alternator.
1. Warning Indicator Light on Dashboard
The warning indicator light signals there isn’t enough
voltage in the battery and current levels are low. This means that it’s harder
to start your vehicle and makes driving dangerous because of the increased risk
of sudden engine stall. If you ignore this warning, your vehicle will
eventually lack enough power to operate its components and can even stop
running altogether. It’s crucial for drivers to take their vehicle in for
service as soon as they notice this warning.
2. Weak or Dead Battery
The alternator is what charges the battery in your car. If
you have a weak or dead battery, this could be a sign that your car’s
alternator needs an inspection. Alternators also typically fail slowly and
gradually, so if you are experiencing these signs, go for an inspection right
away!
Ford creates vehicles that are well-known to be highly reliable, using only the best state-of-the-art materials. These American-made automobiles have built quite a legacy for this automaker, and the 2021 Ford Edge furthers this solid reputation. Drivers love this midsize SUV for its beautiful body styling, spacious cabin, and incredibly desirable features. The 2021 Edge will make the perfect addition to any family’s lineup at home.
1. Exceptional Suite of Driver-Aids
Ford’s innovative technology has helped to create many advanced driver-assistance features that make every vehicle in their lineup safer and more secure. Some of these safety features include blind-spot monitoring, rain-sensing windshield wipers, automatic high beams, adaptive cruise control, evasive steering assist, lane centering, and lane-keep assist.
All of these popular driver aids are just a sample of the extensive list of assistance features that Ford has included on each model of the 2021 Edge.
2. Class-Leading Infotainment Center
Modern drivers require modern technology. Every model of the 2021 Edge comes fully equipped with a best-in-class 12-inch touchscreen display. This large interface helps drivers to more quickly and easily glance at the infotainment center and gather the information they need without keeping their eyes off the road for extended periods of time.
This display is user-friendly and will effortlessly connect your compatible smartphone using Apple CarPlay or Android Auto. With this integration, you and your passengers will always have access to your full range of apps and contacts, while you stream music, send messages, or connect to the vehicle’s own personal Wi-Fi hotspot.
Few cars are as iconic as the Ford Mustang. Since its debut in 1964, the pony car has been an emblem of style and power. Experience the latest features with classic muscle car attitude in the 2021 Ford Mustang.
Get to Know the 2021 Ford Mustang
The 2021 Mustang is the latest sixth-generation Mustang. Every inch a modern classic, it boasts the pony car layout, iconic rear lights, and legendary emblem that make the ‘Stang the definitive American muscle car.
Beautiful on the Inside
On the interior, it’s better than ever while staying true to its epic heritage. Elegant gauges and heritage-style shifter harken back to Mustangs of yore, while commodious seats and generous front headroom bring it into the modern era.
Also bringing it into the 21st century is a state-of-the-art infotainment system. It comes with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a great stereo system. New Mustangs also include Ford Sync Connect, which gives owners remote monitoring and control over their vehicle through a convenient smartphone app.
Killer Looks
The pony car has been an icon of style since the days of Steve McQueen jumping it over the hills of San Francisco and Sean Connery’s James Bond cruising Vegas in a Mustang Mach 1 in Goldfinger. The latest generation of Mustangs stays true to the design vocabulary of those heady days, with clean lines that are unmistakably Mustang.
Sixth-gen Mustangs are wider and lower than their predecessors, adding to the aggressive looks and giving greater stability.
The Top 4 Golf Courses Near Little Rock, AR
There are no shortages of golf courses near Little Rock, AR. With over 20 courses in and around the area, you’ll never run out of options to play a round or two of your favorite sport. These courses range in style from traditional links-style to picturesque mountain designs with rolling hills and lakes.
The Top 4 Golf Courses Near Little Rock, AR
1. Burns Park Tournament Course
The course is situated in the heart of North Little Rock. It offers a scenic 18-hole layout that winds through trees, creeks, and rolling hills with lots of elevation changes for an enjoyable round. The course features five sets of tees so golfers can enjoy it regardless of their skill level.
The signature hole at Burns Park is arguably the par-three 17th hole, which plays up to 190 yards over water onto an island green surrounded by deep bunkering on every side. This testy little number requires good club selection off the tee, or else players will be playing from the rough.
2. Burns Park Championship Course
The Burns Park Championship Course is a municipal course that plays to over 6000 yards from the tips. The course was designed by legendary golfer and course architect Steve Ralston. A prominent characteristic of this course includes an all-white sandstone rock quarry used for outcroppings along many fairways on both nines.
Since its opening in 1995, the Burns Park has hosted several prestigious events, including PGA Tour Qualifying Tournament and the United States Amateur Public Links Championship. The terrain at this course is quite subtle, with the course playing from a low country elevation to over 500 feet on the back nine. The greens are predominantly medium-sized and sloped towards lower lying areas of the course; these characteristics can make putting difficult for many golfers.
3. The Greens at North Hills Course
The North Hills Course is a beautifully manicured course that offers a scenic 18-hole. It is located in Sherwood, Arkansas, and it was designed by golfing legend Robert Trent Jones, Sr. There are water hazards on every hole of the course, so be prepared to hit your shots accordingly with this challenging layout!
The views from the tee boxes at North Hills Course alone will take your breath away! The rolling hills around the green complexes create a picturesque backdrop for any golfer lucky enough to play here!
4. Rebsamen Championship Course
This course is in the heart of Little Rock and is a great place to start for new golfers. It has some hard holes, but most are easy enough that beginners will enjoy it too.
It also features nine par-three holes, which can be used as warmups before hitting nine more challenging ones on this course. The clubhouse overlooks a waterway with white egrets making their nests among cypress trees – an idyllic scene for any golfer looking out from the tee box.
The above golfing locations give you a wide variety of course layouts and scenery to choose from. While on your way to these courses, take a reroute and visit us at Crain Ford of Little Rock to have your car serviced.
3 Favorite Fishing Spots Near Little Rock, AR
Located in the center of the state and surrounded by several rivers and lakes, the city of Little Rock, AR is an excellent place from where anglers can go on day trips or weekend escapes to some great fishing spots in the area. Whether you are living in the capital of Arkansas or staying in the city for a few days, these are some of the best places you can visit for a fishing day with your friends or family.
3 Favorite Fishing Spots Near Little Rock, AR
1. Lake Maumelle
Covering almost 9,000 acres of surface area, Lake Maumelle is one of the primary sources of drinking water for the city of Little Rock and other nearby towns. This artificial reservoir was created in the 1950s as a result of the construction of a dam across the nearby Big Maumelle River. Nowadays, this lake features around 70 miles of shoreline and has become a popular weekend destination for families from the area.
Apart from other water activities, including boating, canoeing, and kayaking, Lake Maumelle is an excellent destination for fishing. While it is not allowed to fish from bridges, docks, or roads, anglers can fish from boats and the designated bank fishing locations. Getting to the shores of the lake from downtown Little Rock takes about 25 minutes by car, driving along AR-10 E. Once you get here, make sure to ask for a map of the fishing areas.
2. Greers Ferry Lake
Located a little over 80 miles north of downtown Little Rock, the Greers Ferry Lake is another excellent fishing spot and a place to enjoy a weekend away from the stress of the city. This manmade reservoir features a surface area of more than 40,000 acres and has become a popular tourist destination since its formation in the 1960s. Some of the most popular activities at the site include camping, scuba diving, swimming, boating, cliff diving, and fishing.
Thanks to its large population of rainbow trout, the Greers Ferry Lake has become a prime fishing destination for anglers from all over Arkansas. Other species commonly found in the area include white bass, striped bass, and largemouth bass. The lake features several boat ramps and shore fishing areas, as well as well-maintained facilities, including picnic areas and campgrounds. Getting here from Little Rock takes around one and a half hours, driving north along routes I-40 and US-65.
3. Ouachita National Forest
Boasting some of the most beautiful landscapes in the entire United States, the Ouachita National Forest is a popular destination for anglers and visitors from all over the country. This nature reserve is located a little over 100 miles west of Little Rock and offers plenty of fishing opportunities along the banks of the Ouachita River and on Lake Ouachita. Some of the most commonly found species include beam, largemouth bass, spotted bass, and walleye.
Are you looking for a new set of wheels for your fishing adventures? Visit us at Crain Ford of Little Rock and check out the different models of new and used vehicles we have available at the best prices.
A Quick Guide to the 2021 Ford Transit Connect
If you’re in the market for a van that’s been built and proven for real work, then you have to look at the Ford Transit Connect. With excellent internal space and a vast range of customization options, this is the only vehicle to consider for your business.
Basics About the 2021 Ford Transit Connect Cargo Van
The Ford Transit Connect line offers businesses a choice of short and long wheelbase options with comfortable seating for two. All vans come with 180° swing-out doors at the rear and dual sliding side doors for easy cargo loading and unloading.
Pricing
The base XL Cargo short wheelbase van begins at an MSRP of $24,655 and comes with a 2.0-liter gas engine and eight-speed automatic transmission.
The higher specification XLT model in long-wheelbase with the available 2.5-liter engine for more power reaches up to $28,395. Numerous options and accessory packs allow you to configure the vehicle to your business’s particular needs.
Capacity for Large Payloads
The Transit Connect offers you two different lengths so it can cope with all your cargo requirements while remaining highly maneuverable in the city. If you choose the short-wheelbase vehicle, you’ll be able to carry 1,510 pounds in a rear space that allows up to 104.8 cubic feet.
The long-wheelbase option gives you space for 127.4 cubic feet of cargo with a maximum weight of 1,550 pounds. Extra cargo-carrying volume can be gained by folding down the front passenger seat.
Two Trim Choices
The XL model comes with an excellent line-up of standard features, including front collision warning with automatic emergency braking, automatic engine stop/start to improve fuel economy, and automatic headlamps.
The higher specification XLT takes the standard XL features and adds on Ford’s Co-Pilot 360 system, blind-spot detection, cross-traffic alert, SYNC 3 infotainment system with touch screen, and wireless charging for your smartphone.
Towing Options
The available towing package adds a trailer tow hitch and trailer sway control to your van with a maximum of 2,000 pounds of capacity.
An available rear-view camera makes hitching your trailer easy and safe and is an excellent option to add if you’re frequently hauling extra gear.
In-Vehicle Information and Entertainment
The XL comes with an AM/FM Radio with Bluetooth functionality to connect your smartphone so you can play your favorite music through the four front speakers. There’s a 4.2” LCD screen and a USB charging port to keep your device powered on the move.
The available SYNC3, which is standard on the XLT, is an intelligent touch and voice-controlled system that can include smart navigation. It’s also Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatible, so you’ll be able to access all your communication, navigation, and entertainment apps.
Ford’s Transit Connect Cargo vans give you impressive carrying capacity inside a vehicle that’s practically sized and well equipped. Visit us at Crain Ford of Little Rock, and we can give you a full tour and show you the perfect vehicle for your business.
The six bridges, yellow streetcars, the zoo, and the Museum of Discovery in Little Rock, AR, makes it one of the most exciting cities for kid-friendly activities. Here you can cycle, walk, or drive over the Arkansas River and walk through parks with miles of scenic trails.
4 Great Kid-Friendly Activities for Families in Little Rock, AR
1. Go on a Six Bridges Tour
One of the most notable characteristics of the city’s skyline is the six beautiful bridges over the Arkansas River. Take the family for tours of the bridges or visit them one by one for a walking or cycling adventure.
Big Dam Bridge
The Big Dam Bridge at Murray Lock and Dam is the longest pedestrian and cyclist bridge in North America. The impressive 90-foot high bridge spans a massive 4,226 feet over the river and connects 70,000 acres of parklands and 14 miles of trails on both sides of the river. Stay until after dark for a spectacular light display when hundreds of colored lights are turned on and reflect on the water.
Junction Bridge
The 1,800 foot long Junction Bridge was formerly a railway bridge constructed in 1884 but is now used for walking, cycling, and skating. To cross the bridge, you must use an elevator or stairs. It’s believed to be the only bridge pedestrian bridge in the country with a lift span.
The Baring Cross Bridge
This is the most western bridge and the city’s first bridge. When the bridge opened in 1873, it was a wood and iron single-track bridge with a swing navigation span. Today it is a modern steel double-track bridge with a lift navigation span and one of the busiest railroad bridges in the United States.
Two Rivers Bridge
Stroll or cycle across the bridge in the Two Rivers Park on the confluence of Arkansas and Little Maumelle Rivers.
The Clinton Presidential Park Bridge or Rock Island Bridge
The 1,614-footbridge was constructed as a railway bridge in 1899. The bridge is also part of the 88-mile multi-use Arkansas River Trail.
Broadway Bridge
The bridge was constructed as a road bridge in 1923. Today there is plenty of room to cross the bridge in the enclosed 16-foot wide BikePed lane to Dickey-Stephens Ballpark.
2. Meet the Critters at the Zoo
Take the kids for a leisurely stroll through 33 acres of scenic landscaped gardens to see more than 500 animals from alligators, elephants, zebras, and rhinoceros to big cats, penguins, apes, and bears. The kids will love feeding the lorikeets cups of nectar at Lorikeet Landing and the fish at the duck pond and Lemur Island. Also, hop aboard the Arkansas Diamond Express for a train ride and take a spin on the beautiful antique carousel.
3. Explore the Museum of Discovery
The Museum of Discovery is the oldest in Arkansas. You and the kids can explore the world of science, technology, engineering, art, and mathematics through 90 interactive exhibits. The museum also houses the Guinness World Record musical bi-polar Tesla coil.
4. Ride in a Yellow Streetcar
Hop on one of the three historic replica streetcars for a fun day exploring the downtown sights. Visit the Clinton Presidential Center, Heifer International, the River Market, and ride over the Arkansas River to North Little Rock’s historic Argenta district.
Pile the kids in the car and explore the city on an exciting, fun-filled adventure. Visit Crain Ford of Little Rock today, and we will take care of all your vehicle requirements.
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