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Owning a car is about more than just the joy of driving: it's also about taking pride in the care of your vehicle. You must check tire pressure regularly, perform regular oil changes, regularly clean and detail your car, and maintain proper wheel alignment to enjoy a comfortable, worry-free driving experience in your Ford. Ways to Maintain Your Ford Vehicle's Performance Properly maintaining your vehicle may seem overwhelming, but there are a few simple things that you can do to be sure that your Ford stays in great ​shape. By performing regular, scheduled maintenance and keeping your car clean and in good repair, you should have a reliable ride for years to come. more Check Tire Pressure Regularly One of the easiest and most important maintenance tasks you can perform is checking the tire pressure regularly. Properly inflated tires enhance your vehicle's handling and performance and improve fuel efficiency. Invest in a good quality tire pressure gauge and check the pressure at least once a month or before long drives. You can find the recommended tire pressure in your owner's manual or inside the driver's door jamb. Remember also to check the spare tire, as it can come in handy in emergencies. Perform Regular Oil Changes Regular oil changes are vital to keep your Ford's engine running smoothly. Engine oil prevents overheating by lubricating the engine's moving parts and reducing friction. Over time, oil can become contaminated and lose effectiveness, so changing your oil at the recommended intervals is crucial. Typically, this is around every 5,000 to 7,000 miles, but you can consult your mechanic about your specific vehicle's needs. Regularly Clean and Detail Your Vehicle Giving your Ford regular cleaning and detailing keeps it looking great and helps protect it, inside and out. Wash your car regularly, especially during the winter when road salt and grime accumulate. Use gentle car wash soap, microfiber cloths, and a soft-bristled brush to clean the exterior. Don't forget about the interior! Vacuum the seats and carpets, wipe down surfaces, and use special products to protect leather or vinyl. Maintain Proper Wheel Alignment Misaligned wheels can cause your tires to wear unevenly, reducing handling and decreasing fuel efficiency. Schedule an alignment to ensure that all four wheels are properly aligned. Some signs of misalignment may include the vehicle pulling to one side, uneven tire wear, or a vibrating steering wheel. If you notice any of these signs, it's time to have your tires checked by a professional. By investing a little time and effort into regular maintenance tasks, you can help extend the life of your Ford, ensure your safety on the road, and enjoy a smoother, more efficient driving experience. Need a little help maintaining your vehicle? Come down to DARCARS Ford of Lanham, where we have everything you need to service your vehicle!

So, you're looking for a new Ford truck but want to customize it with some accessories. Maybe you want a new bed liner or trailer hitch? And, of course, you need a tonneau cover! Let us show you some great options for your truck. Enhancing Style and Functionality Bed Liner Every truck deserves a quality liner. Without one, your truck bed is likely to get dinged and scratched. If you want to keep your Ford looking like new, adding a drop-in or a spray liner is a great way to keep it fresh and stylish, no matter what you throw in the bed. more Drop-in Liners Drop-in liners are a great way to help protect your new Ford F-150 XLT. These hard plastic coverings fit right over your truck's bed and can be easily removed for cleaning or when it needs to be replaced. That way, you can easily load up even the heaviest of objects, like your muddy ATV, without fearing damage to the bed. Then, you can pull out the liner, spray it out, allow it to dry, and replace it in the bed, and your truck looks good as new. A liner is an excellent start if you want to keep your truck looking its best. Spray Liners Another option for liners is to have a spray liner added. They are exactly what they sound like: a liquid coating that is sprayed into the bed of your truck. It bonds with your truck bed and protects it from scratches and dings. These liners may sound fragile, but they are guaranteed not to crack, bubble or peel, and they help keep your truck looking like new. Tonneau Cover (Truck Bed Cover) To keep your bed safe, you also need a good cover. The Tonneau comes in various options, including hard, soft, folding, and roll-up, so there's something perfect for your truck, no matter what you're putting in the bed. Having a cover means you protect the bed and whatever you're hauling from the elements. If that's not a good enough reason, adding a cover also helps prevent wind drag. Plus, they come in a variety of colors, so they add style as well as function. Trailer Hitch Want to hook up and haul your trailer easily? Then you need a good hitch. Adding a hitch to your Ford means you can tow an extra 12,500 pounds. So, if you're going to be towing often, it's a must-have accessory. Which accessory are you going to add first? No matter which you pick, you can get everything you need for your new truck by visiting us at DARCARS Ford of Lanham. Our knowledgeable staff is always happy to help.

The 2023 Ford Mustang comes with a powerful standard engine and the option for an even more potent V-8. It pairs the exterior styling of a classic muscle car with modern interior features. This model proves that it's still worth the attention of car enthusiasts worldwide. Discover the Key Specs and Features of the 2023 Ford Mustang Engines There are two main engine options for 2023. At the entry-level, the EcoBoost Fastback model has a 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine. It offers up an impressive 310 horsepower and 350 pound-feet of torque. The turbocharged, direct-injection engine pales and doesn't offer the same power as the V-8, yet it's still more powerful than previous Mustang models. more Then there's the option for a 5.0-liter V-8 engine. This engine can be had in the GT models or in the Mach 1 model. In the Mach 1, it delivers 470 horsepower and 410 pound-feet of torque. These engines have two transmission options. There is a standard 6-speed manual transmission or a 10-speed automatic. Fuel Efficiency The EcoBoost Premium model averages 21 miles to the gallon in the city. It gets 29 miles to the gallon on the highway. This is a very fuel-efficient Mustang, living up to the EcoBoost name. The 5.0-liter engine in the GT Premium averages 15 miles to the gallon in the city and 24 miles to the gallon on the highway. Exterior Styling The entry-level EcoBoost Premium Fastback comes standard with exterior styling perfect for a muscle car. Standard features include LED headlights and LED front park turning lights. There are also LED sequential taillights and a pony puddle light on the side mirrors. There is a shark fin antenna, hood vents, and a decklid spoiler. There's also an option to add a performance rear wing. Another option is to add an over-the-top racing stripe in either ebony or white. Interior This year's Mustang has a thoughtful design with more modern conveniences, like storage space. The cargo area has 13.5 cubic feet of space, which is more than Ford's competition offers. There is a 50/50 split-bench folding rear seat. When folded down, this can create even more cargo space. The Mustang comes standard with a 4-way manual driver seat. There's an option to upgrade this to a 6-way power driver's seat. This gives the driver's seat power lumbar control. Infotainment and Connectivity Ford offers the option to upgrade to their Sync 3 Infotainment system in the Mustang. Their voice-activated technology makes phone calls and music selection much easier. It also has Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Wi-Fi hotspot compatibility. The vehicle includes Track Apps as standard, which gives the driver performance metrics like lap times. The Mustang is a top choice for drivers who prioritize performance. Visit DARCARS Ford of Lanham today to see our selection of new cars.

Have you ever wondered what OEM parts are and why they come so highly recommended for your Ford? Genuine brand-name parts play a vital role in keeping your vehicle running smoothly for a variety of reasons. Why use OEM parts for your Ford? Let's Explore Their Significance "OEM" means "Original Equipment Manufacturer." When we talk about parts that are OEM, we're referring to components that are specifically designed, engineered, and produced by the same manufacturer that built your car. In simple terms, these are genuine parts built to fit perfectly into your vehicle straight from the same source. more A Perfect Fit for Your Vehicle One of the main reasons that authorized replacement parts are so important is their quality and compatibility with your Ford. These parts are meticulously designed to meet Ford's exact specifications and standards, meaning that they fit perfectly and work seamlessly with your car's existing systems. By using brand-name parts, you ensure that you get the same high-quality components originally installed in your Ford during the manufacturing process. Whether it's a replacement part for routine maintenance or a repair after an unexpected mishap, choosing genuine parts helps guarantee that your vehicle will continue to perform its best. Greater Reliability From Genuine Parts Replacement parts straight from the manufacturer provide greater peace of mind because they are engineered to the same standard as your car. That means they can withstand the rigors of daily driving and are tested to meet strict quality standards. Unlike aftermarket parts that may have lower standards, brand-name parts are consistently reliable. Preserve Your Warranty Coverage Since genuine parts are sourced directly from your vehicle's manufacturer, they are backed by the same warranty that applies to your Ford. Using aftermarket parts may void your warranty or result in limited coverage, potentially leaving you responsible for future repairs or replacements. With brand-name parts, you can continue to enjoy support and coverage from the manufacturer. Retaining Resale Value If you're considering selling or trading in your Ford in the future, maintaining its resale value is essential. Using brand-name parts during repairs and maintenance can help preserve the value of your vehicle. Potential buyers will recognize the use of genuine Ford parts and appreciate the care you have given your vehicle. In the world of automotive repairs, ordering brand-name parts for your Ford is always the best choice. Their quality, compatibility, and reliability make them a smart investment. Remember the value of genuine parts the next time you need to replace a part or perform maintenance on your Ford. For quality repairs you can trust, contact us at DARCARS Ford of Lanham, and let us help take care of your vehicle.

When hitting the road in Lanham, MD, you want a reliable and capable vehicle that can handle your adventures. Ford vehicles have long been known for their durability, performance, and innovative features, making them a popular choice among drivers. But the question remains: should you buy or lease a car? Driving in Lanham, MD: Should You Buy or Lease a Ford Car? Whether to buy or lease is more complex than it appears because there is no one correct answer. Instead, the best option for you will depend on your budget, driving habits, and long-term plans. The Freedom of Buying a Ford Imagine the thrill of owning your very own Ford, ready to conquer the Maryland terrain that comes your way. Buying a car offers you the freedom to personalize and modify it according to your preferences, allowing you to create a vehicle that suits your lifestyle. more As an owner, you can drive as much as you want without any mileage restrictions or concerns about wear and tear. Plus, once you've paid off your loan, you'll have the satisfaction of owning your car outright, giving you a sizeable chunk of equity when you want to sell or trade it in. Factors To Consider When Buying It's essential to consider upfront costs, such as taxes, fees, and down payments, which could be hefty, and the monthly payments may be higher than leasing. This could turn your car into a significant financial burden. Also, as your vehicle's owner, you are solely responsible for maintenance and repairs, meaning that an unexpected accident could break the bank. The Flexibility of Leasing a Ford If you prefer the thrill of driving a new car every few years, leasing a vehicle might be the perfect option for you. Leasing offers the flexibility of upgrading to the latest models every few years, with lower monthly payments compared to buying. It also provides peace of mind, as leases generally come with a warranty, meaning it helps you stay protected from the cost of repairs. Leasing lets you sidestep the hassle of selling or trading your car when you need a new one, too - just return the leased vehicle and get a different one! Factors To Consider When Leasing Leasing has its downsides, as well. Because you're only leasing the car, you never gain equity or fully own it, similar to renting a home. Vehicles that are leased also usually come with mileage restrictions, meaning that if you drive too far in a year, you could rack up extra fees. Decide Whether to Buy or Lease a Car The final decision between leasing and buying must be made after consideration of your budget, long-term plans, and whether vehicle ownership is important to you. If you take your time and research, you're sure to find the option that suits you best. No matter which you choose, a Ford offers the dependability, performance, and versatility you need to take the scenic route. If you're ready to hit the road and have some adventures, contact DARCARS Ford of Lanham today and let us help put you in your dream car!

Choosing between buying a new or used car can be a tough decision. On the one hand, there's the allure of that new car smell, the latest features, and the peace of mind that comes with a warranty. On the other hand, used cars come with a lower price tag, the potential for lower insurance costs, and the thrill of getting a good deal. So, which option in Lanham, MD, is better for you? New or Used Car: Which is Better? The choice between a new car and a used one comes down to your preferences, budget, and individual needs. By researching, you can make an informed decision that works best for you. more The Appeal of Buying a New Ford There's something undeniably exciting about being the first owner of a brand-new Ford. From that fresh-off-the-production-line feel to the latest technological advancements, buying a new car offers a sense of pride and the enjoyment of having a vehicle tailored to your specifications. New Ford models also usually come with a warranty, which helps to provide peace of mind and protection against unexpected repairs. New cars are less likely to break down in the first place than older vehicles. However, new cars come with a higher price tag and experience rapid depreciation during their first few years. The Advantages of Buying a Used Ford Buying a used Ford has its own unique set of advantages that may appeal to budget-conscious individuals or those seeking a specific make or model that may no longer be in production. Used cars typically cost less compared to their new counterparts, allowing you to get more bang for your buck. Additionally, used Ford vehicles have already undergone initial depreciation, which means they won't experience the same significant drop in value as new cars. Insurance rates are usually lower for used cars, too, which can help save you money in the long run. However, it's much more important to be careful to learn the vehicle's history and inspect its condition before making your purchase to be sure you're making a wise investment. Study Your Options in Lanham, MD Ultimately, buying a new Ford or choosing something pre-owned will come down to your specific circumstances. How big is your budget, and does depreciation matter to you? How much value do you place on up-to-date features in your vehicle? Are you prepared to make more frequent repairs to an aging car? There is no one-size-fits-all answer, so take your time, do your research, and test-drive different vehicles to find the one that works best for you. If you're ready to commit to a new (or new-to-you) Ford, come down to DARCARS Ford of Lanham, where we have a vehicle for every lifestyle! Please complete our online pre-approval form and schedule a test drive today to experience the thrill of driving a Ford firsthand.

If you're looking for an economical, fuel-efficient, and comfortable car for your day-to-day needs here in Maryland, you've got all the best options! Ford's selection of budget-friendly family cars has options that are perfect for the needs of any commuter: the Ford Fusion, Ford Focus, Ford Escape, Ford EcoSport, and Ford Transit Connect. Best Ford Models for Commuters 1.    The Ford Fusion The Fusion only ceased production a few years ago, in 2020, so you can find numerous gently used and highly modern Fusion cars on the market today. The Fusion is still one of the most spacious midsized cars on the market, making it an excellent option for commuters who value comfort and might want to take friends or family along after work. The more recent editions also come equipped with the latest safety technology seen on today's Ford models and the Ford SYNC infotainment system. more 2.    The Ford Focus Ford's Focus Line was one of the top-ranked sedans in the 2010s, and many critics still cite it as one of the best compact family cars on the market. An excellent option for your local commute! It is a versatile car and incredibly fuel efficient in many of its trims, available in both sedan and hatchback form and with hybrid and fully electric options. It's also an incredibly affordable option, with even the more recent models priced very affordably compared to competitors. 3.    The Ford Escape If you're looking for a commuter car that combines the best of being fuel-efficient, safe, and comfortable, the Escape has you covered all around. With the size and trunk space of a crossover SUV mixed with the fuel efficiency of a commuter car, the Escape can carry just about anything yet still clocks 30 combined mpg. The latest editions of the Escape feature the latest Ford technology for comfort and safety, including a 360-degree camera, B&O surround sound system, and a digital instrument panel. 4.    The Ford EcoSport Another Ford built for commuters yet featuring the space and comfort of a crossover, the EcoSport ranks as one of the safest and best tech-equipped commuter cars on the market and delivers an incredibly efficient 28 combined mpg. With several features like Safety Canopy and Intelligent 4WD, typically only found on more pricey trucks and SUVs, you can sit back and relax for your drive in an EcoSport. 5.    The Ford Transit Connect If you don't usually drive alone, nothing in the market competes with Ford's Transit Connect Passenger Wagon when it comes to providing comfort and space. The 7-seater van offers everyone plenty of space and all the comforts of a modern Ford. With sliding doors and a low chassis height compared to SUVs, getting in and out is a breeze. And you can keep all your passengers entertained with Ford's new SYNC-3 system, available on all newer models. No matter what Ford you're looking to buy, new or used, it's best to do so at your local Ford dealership to get all the best deals. If you're here in Lanham, MD, come down to DARCARS Ford of Lanham to get your best deals on the best commuter Ford cars like these!

Ford is built to be tough, but no matter how strong, there may come a time when you have to replace the engine. You can sometimes get around 200,000 and even 300,000 miles out of your engine before having to get a new one. Below, your Ford dealer tells you what to look for when your F-150, Mustang, or Bronco needs a new engine. Advice From Your Ford Dealer: Is it Time to Replace the Engine on Your Ford? Your Car Is Always Overheating If your car is constantly overheating, your engine could be the culprit even after you've had the cooling system inspected and repaired. When it gets too hot under the hood, the excessive heat can crack the engine block, causing irreparable damage. more Your Car Is Not Running Well Problems with your car's engine will cause an overall loss in performance. You will notice that your vehicle runs roughly, burns more gas, feels slow when accelerating, and is hard to start. You Hear Constant Knocking and Grinding Noises If you hear knocking coming from under the hood all the time, you have major problems. Knocking or banging noises are caused by worn bearings that support the motion of the moving components. When they eventually seize, it will cause severe engine damage. You See Smoke Pouring Out of Your Tailpipe Seeing a lot of thick smoke in your rearview mirror is never good. The color of the smoke will tell you what type of fluid is leaking into the engine. If black smoke is billowing out of your tailpipe, its gas enters the combustion chamber. Leaking engine oil will reduce lubrication and cause blue smoke. Leaking coolant, which will cause your car to overheat, creates white smoke. There Are Metal Shavings in the Engine Oil Many moving metal components under the hood work together to run your engine. When the parts become old and worn, they disintegrate, releasing metal shavings into the oil flowing through the engine. The metal shavings will wreak havoc. Your Check Engine Light Is On When one of your car's many sensors detects a problem, your car's check engine light will be triggered. If you notice the light is on, ask us to perform an engine diagnostic test to determine what is causing the problem. The faster you get the issue repaired, the less damage will occur, and you might even be able to avoid an engine replacement. If you are constantly struggling with engine issues and your vehicle is not running as it should, replacing your engine is better than continuously paying high repair costs. Contact DARCARS Ford of Lanham today to schedule a service appointment. Our certified and experienced Ford technicians will expertly replace your engine and ensure your vehicle will give you many more miles of driving pleasure.

The 2023 Ford F-150 is available with a choice of eight trim levels; XL, XLT, Lariat, Tremor, Platinum, Limited, Raptor, and King Ranch. With such a wide range of trims, you might need some help comparing them. Here is a list of the key features available in each trim level. Break Down of the Ford F-150 Trim Levels XL This is the base trim but still provides impressive power and handling. A 290-horsepower 3.3-liter V-6 engine comes as standard, plus you can upgrade to a 5-liter V-8 engine. There are hybrid options, too. A huge range of safety options is available on this base trim, including an SOS post-crash alert system, a backup camera, and automatic high beams. more XLT Upgrade to this trim, and you'll benefit from a range of extra safety features, including blind spot monitoring, lane-keeping assist, and rear cross-traffic warnings. You'll also get alloy wheels, a Wi-Fi hotspot, and a Ford SYNC 3 infotainment system. Lariat This trim offers some notable interior upgrades. For example, you'll have leather seating, dual-zone automatic control, and an infotainment system with a larger screen. If you enjoy listening to music on your road trips, you might appreciate the option to upgrade to a Bang & Olufsen premium sound system. King Ranch Notable upgrades with this trim include ambient lighting, heated and ventilated seating, and a heated leather-wrapped steering wheel. Tremor The 5-liter V-8 engine is standard when upgrading to this trim. With this engine, you should be able to make 17 miles per gallon in the city or 21 miles per gallon on the highway. Branded shock absorbers also make this trim more fun for off-road enthusiasts. Platinum There are exterior upgrades on this trim, including 20-inch alloy wheels and chrome accents. There are some cool technological features added, as well. These include rain-sensing windshield wipers, LED fog lights, power-deployable running boards, and a BoxLink interface system. Limited This is a hybrid vehicle powered by a 3.5-liter Powerboost V-6 engine. You can expect to achieve 23 miles per gallon in the city and on the highway with this vehicle. You'll upgrade to 22-inch alloy wheels with this trim, plus you'll get additional safety features, including a 360-degree camera and adaptive cruise control. Raptor This is a standalone trim that focuses on pure performance. It's powered by the EcoBoost V-6 engine. Notable features include a terrain management system and a torque-on-demand transfer case. The Ford F-150 has been one of the most popular vehicles in the United States for many decades, and its huge range of trim levels is one of the key reasons why. If you're in the market for any new or used Ford vehicle, visit our experts at DARCARS Ford of Lanham.

Ready to tackle challenging terrains, and perfect as both a work and play truck, the 2023 Ford Ranger offers incredible performance alongside cutting-edge technology. Its off-road capabilities are just as notable as its smooth handling on highways, and with multiple cab options, you can choose between two- and four-door designs. With so many features to love in this truck, we've highlighted the following five that will impress you and your passengers. Get to Know the Outstanding Features of the 2023 Ford Ranger 1.    A Powerful Engine for All Occasions With this edition, there are plenty of impressive performance options to get excited about, though the 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine deserves a spotlight. Equipped with Auto Start-Stop technology to help you save fuel, this powerful turbocharged engine produces 270 horsepower, enough kick for both on- and off-road driving and when pairing it with the available Trailer Tow Package, it lends the vehicle a 7,500-pound maximum towing capacity. more 2.    Multiple Drive Modes for Tough Terrains In addition to optional four-wheel drive, there's also the dynamic Terrain Management System. With the push of a button, this available feature allows you to instantly adapt the Ranger to challenging terrains, including Snow, Mud, and Sand, with four different drive modes available. 3.    The Innovative SYNC Infotainment System The Ranger's infotainment system, SYNC 3, offers two different control options, as it pairs an 8-inch touchscreen with voice command technology. You can use this system to listen to satellite radio, make and take calls, or chart your path with turn-by-turn navigation instructions, making road trips and everyday commutes around town more straightforward and entertaining. 4.    Luxurious Seats With Maximum Comfort The Ranger's seats come in many different styles and configurations, with leather, premium suede, and vinyl fabrics. There is a heating function for the front-row seats to help you warm up on chilly days, and there's also an under-seat storage area when opting for the rear bench seats in SuperCrew models. 5.    Enhanced Stability When Towing Trailers If you overload a trailer or you're driving too fast with it, this pickup's Trailer Sway Control feature can let you know this as soon as it detects any instability. A light will display in the instrument cluster, asking you to slow down, though this feature can also take more hands-on action if needed by reducing engine torque and increasing brake pressure. The 2023 Ranger delivers exactly what drivers need, with solid performance, cutting-edge technology, and a wide array of interior comforts to make long drives enjoyable. To check out all of its other attractive features, click here and view our in-depth model research of the 2023 Ford Ranger. When you're ready, contact us at DARCARS Ford of Lanham, and we'll be happy to schedule you for a test drive at your convenience.

The Ford F-150 has long been the number one choice when it comes to trucks, and with good reason. It's always been the top choice for power, muscle, and practicality. The 2023 Ford F-150 has evolved to offer everything from an aluminum body to turbocharged powertrains and plenty of impressive technology. Whether you're looking for a work truck or a vehicle that will take you off-roading around Lanham, MD, the F-150 has you covered. Discover Our Favorite Features of the Ford F-150 1.    Ferocious Engine Options This year's F-150 has several blistering engines, including a 400 horsepower 5.0-liter V-8, a 400-horsepower twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V-6, and a 3.0-liter diesel V-6 pumping out 250 horsepower. It also boasts a 400-horsepower hybrid powertrain for the first time, offering a massive 700 miles of driving range per tank. Accompanying all these powertrains is either rear-wheel or four-wheel drive and a 10-speed automatic transmission. more 2.    A Spacious, Practical Cabin Inside the cabin, enjoy touches of luxury and utility that elevate the pickup to sophisticated new heights. Premium materials are used throughout, and extra convenience features turn the interior into an on-the-go workspace. Notably, the 10-speed automatic's shift lever folds flat with the center console, affording you a handy workstation in the middle of your car. Crashing on site overnight? The F-150 can be ordered with fold-flat front seats that can provide a place for sleeping. 3.    Tomorrow's Tech, Today An easy-to-use 8.0-inch infotainment display comes standard across the trims, or you can opt for the 12.0-inch unit. We love that the Sync 4 infotainment system now updates over the air for future software releases. Enjoy standard features like Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a Wi-Fi hotspot. Upgrades can get you a SiriusXM radio, a Bang & Olufsen stereo system, and navigation that comes with traffic and weather updates. 4.    The Brand New Rattler Are we missing any other great updates for 2023? Fans of off-roading will love the brand new Rattler trim that's now part of the F-150 lineup. Hitting the road less traveled has never been easier thanks to a dual-exhaust system, 18-inch wheels, a locking rear differential, hill-descent control, and an off-road suspension system. Rounding out the rugged appearance are distinctive rattle-snake-inspired logos peppered throughout the car's design. In 2023, this perpetually best-selling pickup remains top of the list for trucks. It drifts seamlessly between a clever work vehicle and a hefty off-roader, all the while looking great and charged with power. And with so many trims available, you can find a model to suit your lifestyle, whatever the price point. To get the adventure started, come for a test drive at DARCARS Ford in Lanham, MD, today.

Winter is a time to be extra careful while driving. As snow falls and degrees go down, you will find numerous icy roads. These roads are very dangerous, as it's easier to lose control of your car. This can happen in Lanham, MD, and there are some tips you should always keep in mind when driving in the area during winter. Slow Down The first rule of thumb when driving on frozen roads is to remember to slow down. Some people drive as if it was just a regular day, but regardless of how much of a skilled driver you are, you are more likely to lose control if you're going too fast. more Plus, it is easier to regain control of your vehicle when you slow down than when you go faster. The recommended speed when driving on these roads is about 45 mph. If you feel like you are sliding, you must go even slower. Don't Slam the Brakes on Icy Roads Your first instinct is often to slam the brakes when the roads are icy. However, this can worsen things and drive you right into a slide. Instead of bringing your car to a sudden halt, remember to go slowly. It's more about avoiding acceleration than braking often. Follow the Slide Sometimes, even if you were going slow, you might catch yourself sliding. Once again, it would be best if you went against that intuition that tells you to turn in the opposite direction of the slide. You need to turn towards the side your vehicle is sliding. Try not to overcorrect, though. Turn your steering wheel slowly to ensure you don't do a full spin. If you overcorrect and the car starts sliding in the other direction, follow that orientation with the steering wheel again. Call Lanham, MD Authorities If you see an accident or a stranded vehicle, call 911 or the local authorities. Furthermore, unless it is an accident in which someone's life is in danger, you should not stop your vehicle. This might sound shocking, but there is a reason for this. Pileups commonly occur when the pavement is frozen, and if you brake to aid the people in the accident, you might end up causing yet another crash. Calling the authorities, who are prepared and trained to deal with these issues, is better. Do Not Get on the Road This might sound quite basic, but it is something to consider and remember. When the roads are frozen, it is better if you stay at home unless it's an absolute emergency. Make sure you think about the importance of that errand you are going to do before getting inside your vehicle. If it's something that can be delayed, it's better to stay at home and avoid driving until the roads are safer. You can do different things to ensure you are as safe as possible when driving on frozen roads. If you want to ensure your vehicle is prepared for winter weather, contact DARCARS Ford of Lanham and learn about all the available services.