Blog

North Carolina summers put vehicles through a sustained test that milder climates never deliver. Weeks of high humidity, stop-and-go traffic in 95-degree heat, and long highway stretches with the AC running hard all place consistent demand on the one system responsible for keeping your engine from destroying itself: the cooling system. Understanding how a Ford cooling system works, what it's designed to handle, and which maintenance steps support engine overheating prevention gives Salisbury drivers a real advantage heading into the hottest months. more How the Ford Cooling System Actually Works The cooling system is a pressurized, closed-loop network built around a single goal: pulling heat away from the engine before temperatures climb high enough to cause damage. Coolant, which is a mixture of water and antifreeze, circulates through passages in the engine block and cylinder heads, absorbing combustion heat as it moves. From there it flows through the upper radiator hose into the radiator, where air passing through the fins draws the heat out. The cooled fluid then returns through the lower hose and the cycle begins again. The thermostat acts as the system's gatekeeper. When the engine is cold, the thermostat stays closed and recirculates coolant within the engine to help it reach operating temperature faster. Once the engine warms to the designed threshold, typically around 190 to 200 degrees Fahrenheit on modern Ford engines, the thermostat opens and allows full flow to the radiator. The water pump, driven by the serpentine belt, maintains that circulation under pressure throughout the entire process. What Southern Heat Actually Does to These Components A Ford cooling system is engineered to handle demanding conditions, but sustained southern heat accelerates wear on specific components in predictable ways. Coolant degrades over time, losing the corrosion inhibitors that protect the radiator and internal passages. Ford recommends flushing coolant on most models every 100,000 miles or five years, but vehicles that frequently operate in extreme heat benefit from checking condition more often than that schedule suggests. Hoses and belts are the components most visibly affected by heat cycling. The repeated expansion and contraction of rubber under high underhood temperatures causes hoses to harden, crack, or develop soft spots, any of which can lead to a coolant leak that drains the system in minutes. A failing belt eliminates the water pump's ability to circulate coolant, which produces the same result: a rapid spike toward engine-damaging temperatures. Checking these components before summer is one of the most direct engine overheating prevention steps a driver can take. The Thermostat and Water Pump: Two Points of Failure to Know Is a thermostat failure something that shows up gradually, or does it happen without warning? Both scenarios occur. A thermostat that sticks closed prevents coolant from reaching the radiator entirely, causing the temperature gauge to climb quickly toward the danger zone. One that sticks open keeps coolant flowing even when the engine is cold, which affects fuel economy and emissions but rarely causes immediate damage. Water pump failure typically develops between 80,000 and 120,000 miles, often announcing itself with a small coolant leak at the pump seal or a grinding noise from the bearing before it becomes a full failure. Ford's EcoBoost turbocharged engines, found across the F-150, Explorer, Escape, and Bronco Sport lineups, generate additional heat under load compared to naturally aspirated engines. That makes engine overheating prevention particularly relevant for EcoBoost owners who do a lot of towing, hauling, or extended highway driving during summer months. What to Watch For and When to Come In The temperature gauge is your first and most reliable indicator. If it climbs above the normal operating range during typical driving, that's a signal to pull over, let the engine cool, and have the system inspected before driving further. A sweet, slightly syrupy smell near the engine bay often indicates a coolant leak even before a visible puddle appears. White smoke from the exhaust can signal coolant entering the combustion chamber, which points to a more serious failure like a head gasket. The service team at Cloninger Ford in Salisbury, NC performs full cooling system inspections that cover coolant condition and concentration, hose and belt integrity, thermostat function, and water pump condition. Catching a worn hose or low coolant before summer peaks is far less expensive than the alternative, and it keeps your Ford cooling system working the way Ford built it to. Frequently Asked Questions About How Ford Cooling Systems Handle Southern Heat How often should I flush the coolant in my Ford? Ford recommends a coolant flush every 100,000 miles or five years for most models. Vehicles that regularly operate in extreme heat or do frequent towing may benefit from more frequent checks of coolant condition and concentration. What are the early warning signs of a Ford cooling system problem? Watch for the temperature gauge rising above the normal range, a sweet smell near the engine bay indicating a coolant leak, coolant pooling under the vehicle, or a grinding noise from the water pump area. Any of these warrant an inspection before they develop into engine damage. Do Ford EcoBoost engines have different cooling system needs than standard engines? EcoBoost turbocharged engines generate more heat under heavy load than naturally aspirated engines, making engine overheating prevention more critical for drivers who tow, haul frequently, or do extended highway driving in summer heat. Regular cooling system maintenance is especially important for these engines. Can I drive my Ford if the temperature gauge is reading high? No. Pull over safely, turn off the engine, and allow it to cool before checking coolant levels. Continuing to drive with an overheating engine risks severe damage to head gaskets, cylinder heads, and other internal components that are far more expensive to repair than a cooling system service.

Keeping your transmission in great shape needn't be difficult. The following straightforward servicing steps, plus a few gear-friendly driving habits, will keep your shifting smooth, quiet, and reliable for many years to come. You can visit us any time; we'd be happy to help with all your Ford transmission maintenance. more Maintaining Your Ford's Transmission: 8 Tips and Best Practices Have Yearly Transmission Inspections Automatic transmissions are extremely complex, and you may not notice when a problem is starting to develop inside the gearbox. With yearly professional inspections, any faults will be found and repaired. Flush the Transmission Fluid Periodically Your transmission fluid should be flushed and replaced every 60,000 to 100,000 miles. Manual transmissions require more frequent flushes: every 30,000 to 60,000 miles. Use the Correct Transmission Fluid It's vital to use the correct fluid for your model. We can help you choose the right fluid. Your owner's manual will also offer guidance on this. Check Your Transmission Fluid Often The more frequently you inspect the fluid, the less likely you are to suffer from fluid-related problems. If your transmission fluid is ever low, dirty, or burned, have it topped up or replaced. Maintain the Engine's Cooling System The engine's cooling system also helps control temperatures inside the gearbox. If your cooling system ever breaks down, both the engine and transmission could soon follow. Warm Your Car Up Before You Drive For the sake of your engine and transmission, always allow your car to warm up for a minute or two before you drive. This raises the temperature of the fluid, helping it to lubricate more easily. Remember to Use the Parking Brake When the parking brake isn't applied and you're stopped on a slope, a great deal of pressure is applied to the parking pawl: a small piece of machinery inside the transmission. Always apply the parking brake to save your transmission from unnecessary strain. Respond Quickly to Signs of Trouble If you hear strange sounds from below while shifting, check the fluid and consider asking a technician to look. And if the gears ever hesitate, slip, or refuse to shift, your gearbox certainly needs professional attention. Schedule Regular Ford Transmission Maintenance When you book a routine transmission service with us, we'll send you reminders whenever it's time for a visit. As with all vehicle components, routine maintenance is the key to a healthy gearbox and minimal transmission repairs over time. Visit Cloninger Ford of Salisbury in Salisbury, NC, today to have your car's transmission checked by qualified technicians. Our friendly, knowledgeable staff are committed to delivering a top-notch customer experience, whatever vehicular issues you need help with.

Ford Evasive Steering Assist is part of Ford Co-Pilot360. Several Ford vehicles have it standard and available. In Ford's words, it "helps make close calls not so close." We're going to look at how it works so you can see how beneficial it can be to have a car. more Ford Evasive Steering Assist: What Is It? Evasive Steering Assist works with several other driver assistance features to help you avoid accidents. If hitting the brakes will be enough to prevent the collision, then evasively steering to avoid the crash may help instead. When activated, Evasive Steering Assist helps you steer your way to safety, but it doesn't steer your vehicle for you. If you don't begin steering, then the feature won't activate and maneuver you to safety on its own. How It Works Your Ford uses a camera and radar sensors to monitor the road. When the camera radar sensors detect that you'll need to brake or steer around the car in front of you to avoid crashing, then Pre-Collision Assist will send you a warning. If needed, your vehicle will automatically apply the brakes to help you slow down and avoid a crash. However, braking isn't always sufficient to prevent a collision, so you might try to steer out of the way. Evasive Steering Assist pitches in and applies more steering torque, a.k.a. more force, to steer you around the vehicle faster. Once you're out of harm's way, Evasive Steering Assist applies some steering torque in the other direction to remind you to get back into your lane. This can be helpful if the incident spooked you and you need that extra reminder. The system deactivates once you've avoided the hazard. How It Enhances Safety Evasive Steering Assist can help detect slow-moving and unmoving vehicles in front of you, acting like a second pair of eyes watching the road to make sure you see everything that could threaten your safety. Because it applies additional force to get you out of difficult situations, it may help you avoid a crash if your efforts aren't enough to prevent one. You may not always steer hard enough or brake fast enough on your own, so your Ford has your back. Come to Cloninger Ford of Salisbury in Salisbury, NC, to look for cars with Evasive Steering Assist. Contact our sales team at 704-828-0015 if you have any questions about models with this feature.

When you need an SUV with plenty of room for passengers and cargo, you need the 2025 Ford Expedition Max. This large three-row SUV boasts an additional foot of cargo space over the regular Expedition, giving you more than enough room for everything you need for family getaways. We look at the four trim levels of the new Expedition Max. more Trim Levels of the 2025 Ford Expedition Max 1. Active The Active is a powerful base trim driven by a 400-horsepower 3.5-liter V6 engine. Its rugged body is ready for anything with its 18-inch aluminum wheels, LED reflector headlights, and daytime running lights. Platform running boards help everyone climb aboard, and a power split gate gives you easy access to the cargo area. Inside, drivers receive a 10-way power-adjustable seat and a stunning 24-inch instrument display strategically placed above the steering wheel instead of behind it. Infotainment comes courtesy of a 13.2-inch touchscreen and six-speaker audio system. 2. Tremor Newly introduced for 2025, the Tremor introduces a high-output V6 engine, increasing the output to 440 horsepower and 510 pound-feet of torque. Ford's most capable Ranger gains off-road enhancements, such as 33-inch all-terrain tires, electronic locking differential, and front skid plates. You also receive additional drive modes, including Rock Crawl, to maximize traction and performance over rough terrain. The leather-trimmed interior now has heated and ventilated seats at the front and heated captain chairs in the second row. A sound upgrade gives you a 10-speaker Bang & Olufsen audio system. 3. King Ranch The stylish King Ranch boasts sinister bronze 22-inch machined wheels to match the sinister bronze bars on the grille. The grille also gains signature lighting for a sophisticated touch. Swish Mesa Del Rio leather with Kingsville stitching now adorns the upholstery, and an additional 12 speakers transform this trim into a mobile concert hall. The King Ranch also introduces convenient features, such as power-deployable running boards and a year's subscription to BlueCruise Hands-Free Driving. 4. Platinum Drivers who crave the finer things in life will love the elevated luxury of the Platinum, especially the multi-contour front seats with their massage feature. Ford's top trim also gains 360-degree exterior zone lighting, perfect for illuminating the area around the Ranger when tailgating or camping. Whether you opt for the well-equipped Active or the luxurious Platinum, you'll be investing in an Expedition Max that delivers outstanding performance and practicality. To check out the full range, visit Cloninger Ford of Salisbury in Salisbury, NC today, and find your new family SUV.

As your Ford dealer, we offer a complete range of services to keep your vehicle in good condition. Regular maintenance reduces vehicle operating costs and extends its life so you can enjoy your Ford for many years to come. We want to tell you more about a few examples of the Ford maintenance we provide. more Examples of Ford Maintenance Available at Your Ford Dealer Wheel Balancing Correct wheel balancing is important as it lets them grip the surface firmly, making driving safer and easier. In addition, balanced tires suffer less wear and tear as surface friction damage is equalized across the tread. As time passes, your tires can become unbalanced due to lost tire weights or other issues. We correct this problem by attaching each tire to our computerized balancing machine. This machine spins the tire at high speed to mimic driving and then analyzes the results. A balanced tire's center of gravity should be located around its hub. The machine will identify balance issues, which our technicians correct by adding weight to the affected areas to bring them back into line. Timing Belt Replacement Your Ford has several belts, but the timing belt is the most important. This belt, made from tough, reinforced rubber, connects the camshaft at the top of the engine to the crankshaft at the bottom. The belt moves at a precisely timed speed, synchronizing the movements of the two engine sections. As time passes, the belt can become worn or damaged. It can also partially slip off its pulley, disrupting the engine timing. If the belt is damaged or not working correctly, you'll hear ticking noises, feel engine vibrations, or suffer repeated engine misfiring. Once the belt is replaced, your engine will work efficiently again. Brake Servicing The brakes are one of your most important safety systems, giving you full control over your speed. The braking system is mechanical, depending on force and pressure to work effectively. Force and pressure generate heat, and these conditions increase wear and tear on system components. In addition, brake components, like the pads, gradually wear out and become less effective. Our technicians examine and test all braking components to ensure they're in good condition and working efficiently. The system is checked for leaks and tested to ensure it operates at the correct pressure. Your brake fluid is also drained and replaced. Book your maintenance by contacting us at Cloninger Ford in Salisbury, NC.

Whether you need a full-size pickup for heavy workloads, off-road adventures, or everyday commutes, the 2024 Ford F-150 is ready to accommodate with reliable performance. more Discover the 2024 Ford F-150: Built Tough Six Stunning Engines Six engines are available with this edition of the F-150, including highlights like the optional 720-horsepower supercharged 5.2-liter V8 offered for the Raptor and an available fuel-savvy 3.5-liter hybrid V6 that delivers 430 horsepower. Even the base model's standard engine, a 2.7-liter V6, churns out an impressive 325 horses, and if you need to haul cargo or tow heavy trailers or campers, this truck offers a maximum payload rating of 2,455 pounds and a 13,500-pound tow rating. Off-Road Capabilities Four-wheel drive is available along with plenty of other off-roading features and comes standard with some upper trim levels. There's also the standard Selectable Drive Modes feature, which allows you to choose from various performance modes that optimize the truck for off-roading, towing, highway cruising, and other scenarios, depending on the trim level. A Comfortable Interior The truck's cabin provides plenty of comfort for long road trips, including a standard rear bench seat that split-folds to accommodate cargo and climate control. Heated and ventilated power-adjustable front seats with a massage function are available for the front seats, while those in the rear can also enjoy an optional heating setting. The available interior work surface folds when you need to use laptops or jot things down. Built for Challenges Designed for tough jobs, this pickup's bed storage boxes and cargo box tie-downs come standard. To make access easier, the available Pro Access Tailgate offers swing-away doors and a pull-out footstep, and to take on challenging weather conditions, the truck is equipped with standard heated side mirrors, while rain-adaptive wipers and fog lamps are available. Advanced Technology In both its entertainment and safety features, this truck boasts innovative technology, with a 5G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot and the SYNC 4 infotainment system coming standard. Available features include a wireless charging pad, the Pro Power Onboard electricity generator, Onboard Scales, and multiple USB ports. Standard safety-monitoring highlights include the Blind Spot Information System (BLIS) with Cross-Traffic Alert, the Tire Pressure Monitoring System, the Lane-Keeping System, Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking, and Automatic High-Beam Headlamps. Ready to see everything else this versatile edition has to offer? Contact us at Cloninger Ford in Salisbury, NC to test-drive the versatile and stylish 2024 F-150 today.

Drivers can't wait to get their hands on the 2024 Ford Mustang, and it's easy to see why. From its reimagined design and innovative tech to its roaring engine and athletic handling, the seventh generation of this iconic muscle car is an engineering masterpiece. We explore five impressive features that make the new Mustang stand head and shoulders above the competition. more 5 Impressive Features of the 2024 Ford Mustang 1. Thrilling Performance When you're behind the wheel of a sports car, you expect a thrilling experience, and that is exactly what the Mustang delivers. At its heart is a 2.3-liter EcoBoost I-4 engine kicking out 315 horsepower and 350 pound-feet of torque for pulse-racing acceleration and speed. Drivers wanting to push the Mustang to its limits should opt for the Dark Horse trim, a supercharged sports car with a 500-horsepower 5.0-liter Coyote V8 hiding under the hood. 2. Responsive Shifting Ford puts you firmly in the driving seat of the Mustang by giving you paddle shifters to control the 10-speed SelectShift auto transmission for fast, seamless shifting. If you want ultimate control over the driving experience, upgrade to one of the GT models and receive a six-speed manual transmission to toggle smoothly through the gears as you see fit. 3. Track Apps To unleash the Mustang's true power, come off the road and put this icon through its paces on the track. Each model is equipped with Track Apps to help you monitor your performance and provide feedback on acceleration, lap times, longitudinal g-force, and more. Choose to display the data on the 12.4-inch information display or the 13.2-inch central touchscreen and see exactly where your driving shines and which skills need improvement. 4. Electronic Line-Lock Every sports car should have the Mustang's Electronic Line-Lock function. Engage this impressive feature to lock up the front brakes while in gear, leaving the rear wheels to spin freely and warm up. 5. Advanced Safety Technologies The Mustang may be a beast on the track, but it also has the safety tech to tame it for driving around Salisbury streets. Ford installs its Co-Pilot360 in every Mustang, giving you a full suite of driver-assist functions to keep you and your passengers as safe as possible. Standard features include road edge detection, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and rear parking sensors. The new Mustang reigns supreme in the world of sports cars. Contact us or visit Cloninger Ford in Salisbury, NC today, and experience the power and beauty of the iconic Mustang.

For over a hundred years, the Ford Motor Company has served as an icon for automotive innovation. Ford's F-Series full-size pickup trucks have been the top-selling vehicle in the U.S. for more than four decades running and with the nimble Maverick, Ford is looking to switch gears and reimagine the compact pickup. If you're looking for agile capabilities, explore the exciting features of the 2024 Ford Maverick and discover big-time performance. more The 2024 Ford Maverick: Big Performance in a Compact Design Powerful Capabilities Equipped with Ford's powerful 2.0-liter EcoBoost engine, the Maverick can produce a hearty 250 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque. With a maximum payload of 1,500 pounds and a standard towing capacity of 2,000 pounds, the Ford Maverick is ready, built to perform challenging tasks. Whether you need to haul building supplies or trailer a pair of jet skis, the Maverick is the perfect companion for work or play. With standard all-wheel drive (AWD) and rugged 17" steel wheels, the Ford Maverick is built to handle rough terrain and challenging conditions. Its 121.1-inch wheelbase and 8-speed automatic transmission make it the perfect choice for drivers who want the performance and versatility of a pickup without the bulk of a full-size truck. Outstanding Utility The Ford Maverick is a versatile performer packing big-time power and utility into its compact frame. With room to comfortably seat five, the Maverick's spacious bed measures 53.3" wide (42.6" between the wheel wells) and offers 33.3 cubic feet of cargo volume. Six integrated tie-down anchors help keep your belongings secure and under-seat compartments inside the cabin keep valuables safe and out of sight. One of the most innovative features of the Ford Maverick is its FLEXBED cargo management system which enables you to quickly and easily configure the truck's bed to adapt to changing needs. Slide standard 2x4 and 2x6 boards into molded vertical and horizontal slots in the bed liner to create shelves and dividers for organizing gear, materials, and equipment. Other FLEXBED highlights include: Multi-position tailgate Pre-wired 12-volt circuit for external devices and accessories Lower side walls for easier bed access Future-Ready Features The Ford Maverick is engineered with rugged capabilities but also infused with tech-forward features to enhance comfort, convenience, and drivability. The Maverick's 8" center stack touchscreen display features Bluetooth technology and built-in connectivity with compatible Android and Apple devices for seamless access to your favorite content. Ford's Co-Pilot360 technology keeps a watchful eye on driving conditions in front of the Maverick and engages emergency braking when a hazard is detected. Other safety features include automatic LED headlamps and a rearview camera. Discover the power and versatility of the Ford Maverick and connect with the friendly sales team at Cloninger Ford in Salisbury, NC to learn more.

Ford has always been on the cutting edge of introducing convenient technology to drivers, and today's Ford infotainment system is no exception. You can test out the amazing capabilities of the Ford SYNC system when you visit your Ford dealer so you can explore how this advanced infotainment keeps up updated and entertained on the road. more Ford SYNC System: Leveraging Technology for Enhanced Driving Experience Most Ford SYNC technology can give you access to pass-through phone controls, audio streaming apps, and navigation. The specifications of your infotainment system will depend on which generation you are. The second-generation SYNC system introduced voice commands, while the first-generation Ford SYNC system focused on hands-free phone controls. Today's SYNC technology is all about wireless connectivity. You can connect your Ford to your favorite phone apps and functions with Bluetooth technology, or you can access apps for navigation or entertainment via wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Voice-activated commands keep your hands and your attention on the road. Navigation Navigation is a crucial convenience feature for drivers who want to get to their destination without traffic delays. Usually, you can use smartphone-integrated apps to project navigation on your vehicle's infotainment touchscreen, but some SYNC systems may also have integrated cloud-based navigation availability. Pass-Through Phone One of the core features of any SYNC system is the pass-through phone commands. With this technology, you can use voice commands to send texts, read texts, and place phone calls. This is a key feature for commuters who spend a lot of time on the road but who also need to stay in touch with loved ones. Voice Command The Ford SYNC 3 system is compatible with Alexa technology. When you download the Ford+Alexa App, you can use voice commands to change the climate control settings in the vehicle, command smart devices at home, or use other apps to listen to audiobooks and play music. Can Your Ford Dealer Update Your Ford Infotainment System? The updates for your infotainment system will depend on which SYNC generation your vehicle is equipped with. If you have a first or second-generation SYNC system, you may need to visit the dealership for software updates. Third and fourth-generation SYNC systems that may be on newer Ford models might have automatic or over-the-air software updates. If you aren't sure how to update your infotainment system, check your owner's manual. Infotainment technology is a major appeal for modern drivers who prioritize flawless navigation and continuous entertainment. Drop by Cloninger Ford in Salisbury, NC to try these infotainment features during a test drive.

The bold 2024 Ford F-150 Lightning is a truck helping drivers keep up with today's busy world. It's equipped with a flexible interior work surface, stunning performance, and a cutting-edge exterior that remains familiar to Ford enthusiasts. Read on to learn more about what you can expect from the future of great trucks. more Introducing the 2024 Ford F-150 Lightning: The Future of Trucks The Exhilarating Performance Every F-150 Lightning comes with all-wheel drive, multiple selectable driving modes, and two electric motors that offer a comfortable, quiet ride with plenty of horsepower under the hood. The entry-level XLT trim, with the standard battery range, delivers 452 horsepower and 775 lb.-ft of torque, with a driving range of 240 miles. Upgrading to the available extended battery range gives this truck 580 horsepower and an EPA-estimated driving range of 320 miles. The Lightning name shows up in many features, from the signature front lighting to the electric performance. It also hints at the F-150 Lightning's incredible speed. For example, the mid-range FLASH trim can go from 0 to 60 in just 3.8 seconds. The Signature Front Lighting The Lightning has the familiar look of the F-150 trucks we all know and love, with the high-tech flair of the F-150 Lightning's LED lighting design. A bright, bold line of LED lighting wraps around the headlights, and then extends across the hood, giving the F-150 Lightning a distinct look that everyone will notice on the road. The Useful Front Trunk Ford's electric truck comes with 52.8 cubic feet of volume in the cargo bed, as well as 14.1 cubic feet of secure space in the front trunk. This front trunk is a space Ford calls their Mega Power Frunk. This innovative storage solution holds up to 400 pounds of cargo. The space is lockable, waterproof, has power outlets, and an easy-to-clean design. The Practical Interior Work Surface When you unfold the interior work surface directly from the center console, your new truck turns into a mobile office. The stowaway shifter helps make space for this useful interior feature. The Excellent Infotainment System Ford's futuristic truck comes with an excellent 12-inch touchscreen. The display is equipped with SYNC 4, and enhanced voice recognition. You'll have a three-year trial subscription to Connected Navigation, making it easy to get where you need to go. If you're looking to upgrade your ride, it's time to test drive a cutting-edge all-electric truck and discover what the F-150 Lightning can do. Visit Cloninger Ford in Salisbury, NC now to see our large selection of excellent new trucks.

Ensuring your car runs as long as possible isn't just something your Ford dealership's maintenance team can do: it's something we're deeply passionate about. Fortunately, Ford service is easy to schedule, affordable, and, when done properly by professionals, can keep your car running smoothly for years or even decades to come. A Ford Dealership's Guide to Longevity-Enhancing Ford Service Oil Service Whether you drive hundreds of miles every day or a dozen miles every month, your Ford will need regular oil changes for performance and longevity. Motor oil lubricates your engine, and oil breaks down over time even if it's not in use, so it's important to change your oil when you hit either the mileage or the month mark. more Brake Service Making sure your Ford stops smoothly in the minimal possible distance is critical for safety. Your owner's manual will give regular intervals to have your brake pads, rotors, calipers, lines, and fluids checked, but if you notice any issues at all with your braking, schedule service sooner. Transmission Service As part of your drivetrain, your transmission needs periodic service to make sure it's working smoothly and safely. Our team will inspect your fluids, check the pan for excess shavings and debris, and, if needed, dive deeper to detect and mitigate any problems, so your Ford can run smoothly for years to come. Balance and Rotate Tires Due to a number of factors, your tires tend to wear unevenly; typically, drive-wheel tires wear faster than non-drive-wheel tires, and the left front tire wears more quickly than the right front due to the added weight of the driver. Rotating your tires periodically ensures that they last as long as possible. Battery Service No battery lasts forever, and batteries are taxed extra hard in extreme weather conditions (even more so in summer than in winter). Having your battery tested and, if needed, replaced, can spare you from breakdowns and ensure worry-free driving all year long. A/C Service If your Ford's A/C isn't working exactly how it should and not blowing ice-cold air the way you expect, get it checked. A straining air conditioner system can cause a decrease in performance and an increase in fuel usage due to inefficiency. Get your A/C charged and seal-tested to make sure you're in good shape. Need Service Sooner? If your Ford isn't behaving right or performing as expected, or if you see, hear, or feel anything that has suddenly changed with your Ford, bring it in for service immediately. When you drive a Ford, you drive a legacy of dependability. And when you let a great maintenance team care for that Ford, you help ensure it can be there for you for years to come. Book your next service appointment today at Cloninger Ford in Salisbury, NC.

Few things are as frustrating as dealing with a failing car battery. Fortunately, you can visit your local Ford dealership for a tune-up, and if necessary, you can obtain a new car battery. In some cases, the problem might lie elsewhere. more How to Tell You Need a New Car Battery From Your Ford Dealership Dim Lighting One of the first signs that your Ford's battery is dying is when the lights are too dim. Normally, lighting should appear bright when a door or the trunk is open. However, a failing battery can cause flickering headlights or dim interior and exterior lights. Engine Starts Slowly or Not at All Your engine should turn upon start-up, but if it starts slowly while making a clicking sound, your battery might be failing. You can also tell that it needs to be replaced if your engine fails to start up at all. Your ignition needs sufficient energy to start up your Ford, but it can't do that with a bad battery. Electrical Issues All of the electrical components of your Ford should immediately work, but this is not the case with a failing battery. You can tell that it's dying when you have issues like your infotainment system not booting up, your phone not charging when plugged in, or your windows not opening or closing at the press of a button, among others. If only one of these is an issue, check under your vehicle's hood to be sure of the culprit. Connectors Have Corrosion Over time, batteries go bad, and their connectors may show corrosion. Look under your car's hood and check them; if you notice a greenish or whitish powdery substance, this is indeed the case. Get a replacement as soon as possible. Warping on the Battery Case When a car battery is worn and failing, its case may start to warp and bulge. This is a sign that you need to replace it immediately to prevent it from exploding, which can cause battery acid to leak inside your engine. Normally, car batteries are rectangular, but your guard should be up if you notice its shape protruding. If your vehicle isn't running smoothly, a new battery might be the solution. Contact us at Cloninger Ford in Salisbury, NC to get a replacement. We're here to provide you with everything you need for your wheels.