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Ford's pioneering spirit and dedication to driver safety are legendary, and the latest Ford cars are crammed with sophisticated safety features, including Pre-Collision Assist With Pedestrian Detection, Active Park Assist 2.0, BLIS (Blind Spot Information System), and many more features in Ford Co-Pilot360: a comprehensive collection of safety features. Ford Keeping You Protected Ford Co-Pilot360 Safety Suite Ford cars today have a full suite of top-notch safety features that continuously monitor the road around you, looking for collision threats. Working in unison, these features pick up on potential collisions more effectively than most drivers can and warn you or even take evasive action. more Pre-Collision Assist With Pedestrian Detection One of the most useful of these safety features is the feature that detects forward collisions. This feature notices any hazard appearing on the road before you and alerts you if any danger arises, including pedestrians. If the cameras detect an imminent threat, your car gives you a clear visual and audible warning, and if you don't react rapidly enough, it will apply the emergency brakes. Blind Spot Information System (BLIS) Whenever a vehicle of any size enters one of your blind spots to the rear of your car, your Ford detects it and activates an LED light on the corresponding door mirror. This way, every time you glance at your mirror, you can be sure whether or not your blind spot is clear before you change lanes. Active Park Assist 2.0 The most challenging parking maneuvers never need to make a Ford driver nervous again with this remarkable automated parking system. It allows you to simply hold down a button to move your car carefully into any parallel or perpendicular parking spot. It controls the gas, gears, brakes, and steering until your car is perfectly parked. Adaptive Cruise Control With Stop-and-Go Ford drivers can take time to rest and relax on long drives while their car takes over for them. Adaptive Cruise Control allows you to set a cruising speed and an appropriate distance from the car ahead. With Stop-and-Go, your car can even slow down to a halt to match the traffic before starting up again when the vehicles ahead begin to move. All the while, Lane Centering makes sure you don't drift out of your lane while following the curves of the road. Auto High-Beam Headlamps Driving at night or in foggy winter weather is also made safer in modern Ford vehicles. Auto High-Beam Headlamps help ensure you don't accidentally blind a driver coming the other way by forgetting to lower your high beams in time. See many more excellent safety features in modern Ford models today at DARCARS Ford of Lanham.

Whether you're just starting out or growing your family, Ford has the perfect car to get you wherever you need to go. Starting from the 5-passenger compact Ford Escape and midsize Ford Edge to the full-size classic Ford Explorer, and finally growing into the spacious Ford Expedition or Ford Expedition MAX, you can carry up to 8 passengers and their gear in comfort and style. Discover the Ford for Your Family Ford Escape The compact SUV offers comfortable, adjustable seating for up to five passengers and generous cargo space with sliding 60/40 split rear seats that fold flat. With two EcoBoost engine options, a hybrid version and a plug-in hybrid, you can get the space you need in an attractive fuel-efficient package. more Ford Edge This mid-sized SUV includes Intelligent all-wheel drive to help with traction on bad roads or for going off-road if you're an adventurous family. With comfortable seating for five passengers as well as towing capacity for up to 3,500 pounds when properly equipped, the Edge can expand your options so you can get your family out of the city and explore. Ford Explorer The Explorer is still going strong as an SUV for the whole family. With seating for seven, the versatile Explorer can handle your expanding family or just your family's expanding needs. With room for all the gear plus a few teammates, you can support your kids' growing list of passions in comfort and style. The PowerFold third row can be easily stowed away for when you have more gear and fewer people, and E-Z Entry Second-Row Seats mean straightforward access to the third row when you need it. Ford Expedition The Expedition is ready to go if you need space more than you need seating. With generous seating for up to eight passengers, the Expedition provides space, comfort, and all the extra amenities that make longer trips a pleasure. The 60/40 PowerFold with Power Recline Third-Row Seats allows you to configure the space to carry whoever and whatever you need comfortably. If you are a family who loves recreational toys like campers or boats, the Expedition provides the most towing capacity at 9,300 pounds when properly equipped. While longer, the Expedition MAX is also heavier and capped at a still-impressive 9,000 pounds of towing capacity. Ford Expedition MAX The Expedition MAX adds nearly an additional foot of length to the Expedition's wheelbase, so if you're regularly carrying a family of eight plus their baggage, you'll most likely welcome the additional space. With 121.5 cubic feet of cargo space with both rear seats folded down, compared to 104.6 cubic feet in the standard Expedition, there isn't much you can't carry in the largest SUV in the lineup. Ford has you covered when you need a safe and spacious family car. Come over to DARCARS Ford of Lanham today to determine which is perfect for you and yours.

Whether you are looking for a stylish SUV for your everyday commutes or a rugged off-road vehicle ready for a challenge, the 2023 Ford Bronco has you covered. Along with advanced safety features and a comfortable, stylish interior, this edition offers stunning engine performance that teams with plenty of hi-tech driver-assist systems, which can make just about any drive an unforgettable adventure. Get to Know the 2023 Ford Bronco at DARCARS Ford of Lanham Strong Capabilities Three capable engines are available for the 2023 Bronco, all of which help easily propel the vehicle through rugged terrains when combined with the standard four-wheel-drive system. The base engine is a four-cylinder with an impressive 300-horsepower output, while the intermediate option, a 2.7-liter V-6, churns out a bit more power with 330 horses. Then there's the Raptor trim's 400-horsepower 3.0-liter V-6, an obvious standout within the group. more Depending on how much control you want, there are two transmission options: a seven-speed manual transmission and a 10-speed automatic. In addition to a standard off-road-ready suspension system, this edition also offers G.O.A.T. modes, a shift-on-the-fly terrain management system. Design and Interior Outside the vehicle, a heavy duty-modular front bumper is available, allowing you to upfit it with various third-party features, such as a winch, a brush guard, or additional lighting. You also have your choice between both hardtop and soft-top roof options, though the hardtop is more beneficial for camping enthusiasts, as you can pitch a tent directly on it. Inside, you can easily combat colder weather with the available heated steering wheel and heated front seats, as well as automatic dual-zone climate control, which can be perfect for times when passengers have different preferences. Advanced Technology Combining music, apps, wireless smartphone connectivity, and a navigation function, the SYNC 4 infotainment system is your all-in-one solution for making drives more enjoyable. It gives you your choice of an 8- or 12-inch touchscreen display and voice recognition technology. When venturing off-road, the Trail Control feature works like cruise control at lower speeds by keeping the vehicle moving steadily while allowing you to focus more on steering. Trail 1-Pedal Drive lets you accelerate, slow, and even stop the car using a single pedal. Smart Safety Features Regarding safety, this edition only provides the latest and most advanced features, with standard offerings like Pre-Collision Assist, Automatic Emergency Braking, and Hill Descent Control in models with a manual transmission. The first two features help prevent frontal collisions, while the third enables you to focus more on steering while driving off-road by acting like low-speed cruise control. To prevent rolling forward or backward when stopped on hills, Hill Start Assist can help stabilize the vehicle for a bit more time once you remove your foot from the brake pedal, and the Rear View Camera helps you see objects behind you whenever you're reversing. Thanks to its unique combination of sophisticated technology, stylish cabin comforts, and a wide array of trail-conquering features, the 2023 Bronco delivers what few other SUVs can. See what else separates it from the others by contacting us at DARCARS Ford of Lanham today.

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!

Every driver can expect to experience a few flat tires in their lifetime. There are 220 million punctures annually in the US alone, about one every seven seconds. Punctures usually come out of the blue and surprise us, but if you ever get a puncture in or around Lanham, MD, it doesn’t have to ruin your day. Follow the guidance below, and you should be safely back on the road in no time. What To Do if You Get a Flat Tire in Lanham, MD Stay Calm and Pull Over When one of your tires blows out, it's crucial to react calmly. Don't slam on the brakes, which might cause a skid or rear-end collision. Gradually slow down and get your car safely off the road. Only drive as far as it takes to reach a safe spot away from traffic on level ground. more The Dangers of Driving With a Puncture A punctured tire greatly disrupts a vehicle's handling. Continuing to drive puts you at risk of an accident and irreparably damages the tire, and causes serious damage to your wheels, suspension, and brakes. Only continue driving if you have special tires designed to keep working safely for up to 50 miles, even with a puncture. These run-flat types of tires are becoming increasingly common with modern cars. Option One: Call Roadside Assistance Once safely pulled over, it's time to fix the problem. Hopefully, you've planned ahead with a roadside assistance package through your insurance policy. Roadside assistance might also be included in your vehicle or tire warranty. Once you've called them, wait in a safe area for help to arrive. Option Two: Repair the Tire Yourself If you don't have roadside assistance (or you feel like trying your hand at a little DIY), you can attempt to repair a minor puncture with tire sealant and an air pump. Some modern cars come equipped with a tire inflation kit instead of a spare tire to save space. These repair kits are only usually suited to very small punctures within the tire treads. The kits work first by pumping sealant into the tire and then pumping in compressed air, enabling you to reach your nearest dealership safely. Option Three: Replace the Tire Yourself If you have a spare tire, you can change it yourself or ask a friend, family member, or roadside mechanic to help. Before you begin, turn your car's hazard lights on and apply the parking brake. Use your tire iron on the wheel with the puncture to loosen the lug nuts by turning them counterclockwise. Then place the jack under the strong area of the frame beside the punctured tire. Make sure the jack is perfectly vertical, then raise your car until the tire leaves the ground. Remove the lug nuts and wheel, then slide the new wheel on. Only tighten the lug nuts by hand, lower the car, remove the jack, and use your tire iron to finish tightening the nuts. If you need any advice on how to deal with a puncture, contact DARCARS Ford of Lanham today. We're a local dealership proudly servicing the region's drivers with great cars, excellent service, and quality tires.

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.

If you're in the market for a used work truck in Lanham, MD, that is versatile and practical, we've put together a list of options to consider. Keep reading to learn about our Ford work trucks and discover which best suit your needs. Ford F-150 The Ford F-150 is a full-size pickup truck popular with contractors, landscapers, and anyone needing a reliable and capable work truck. Known for its powerful engine options, spacious interior, and advanced safety features, the F-150 is an excellent choice for anyone needing a rugged and dependable work truck. When looking for a used F-150, look for models with the 3.5-liter EcoBoost engine, which offers plenty of power and torque while still delivering good fuel economy. more Ford Ranger The Ford Ranger is a compact pickup truck well-suited for Maryland drivers who need a work truck but don't have the space for a full-size truck. Known for its nimble handling, strong towing capabilities, and fuel efficiency, the Ranger is a great choice for anyone who needs a small but mighty work truck. When looking for a used Ranger, look for models with the 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine, which delivers plenty of power and efficiency. Ford Super Duty The Ford Super Duty is a heavy-duty pickup truck designed for the toughest jobs. Whether you're a contractor, a landscaper, or anyone who needs a truck that can handle heavy loads and demanding work, the Super Duty is a great choice. Ford’s Super Duty line includes favorites like the F-250, F-350, F-450, and many more durable work truck options. When looking for a used Super Duty, look for models with the 6.7-liter Power Stroke diesel engine, which delivers impressive power and towing capabilities. Ford Transit The Ford Transit is a full-size van designed for commercial use. Whether you're a contractor, a plumber, or an electrician, the Transit is an excellent choice for anyone who needs a spacious and versatile work vehicle. When looking for a used Transit, look for models with the 3.5-liter EcoBoost engine, which delivers good fuel economy and plenty of power. Ford E-Series The Ford E-Series is a line of full-size vans designed for commercial use. Whether you're a contractor, a plumber, or an electrician, the E-Series is an ideal choice for anyone who needs a spacious and versatile work vehicle. You can find Ford’s E-Series in E-Series Cutaway and E-Series Stripped Chassis models. When looking for a used E-Series, look for models with the 5.4-liter Triton V-8 engine, which delivers strong performance and reliability. Overall, these Ford work trucks are perfect choices for Maryland drivers who need a reliable and capable work vehicle. Whether you're looking for a compact pickup truck, a heavy-duty pickup truck, or a full-size van, Ford has a model that will meet your needs. Stop by DARCARS Ford of Lanham to shop our used work truck selection today!

If you are looking for an SUV that can handle off-road trails and city streets better than the Wrangler, you need to test drive the 2023 Ford Bronco. This 4X4 SUV comes with multiple powertrain options and two distinctive body styles so you can get the right trail climbing vehicle for you. Keep reading to learn why the Bronco is the best choice for your family this year. Check Out the 2023 Ford Bronco The Bronco Heritage Edition has been added to the Bronco lineup for 2023. This SUV is a throwback to the classic 1960s Bronco. You will love the white grille and roof that have been added to the Heritage and Heritage Limited Edition this year. This year's Heritage Edition was heavily based on the Big Bend trim with the Sasquatch package, giving you a 2.3-liter engine and either a manual or auto transmission. In addition to the Heritage Edition, the 2023 Bronco is also available in a stunning array of rugged trims, including the Everglades, Raptor, and Outer Banks models. more Powertrains This year's Bronco comes with a 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine as its standard powertrain. This robust powertrain delivers a massive 300 horsepower. However, if you want more trail-climbing power, you can choose the available 2.7-liter twin-turbo V-6 engine, which produces 330 ponies. Both of these powertrains are matched with a 10-speed auto transmission. The 7-speed manual transmission is only available with the 2.3-liter four-cylinder powertrain. Exterior The 2023 Bronco has two optional body styles, a two-door, and a four-door body. These body styles can be completed with either a soft or hard top. However, the customizations don't stop there, with removable body panels and more. Interior Inside the 2023 Bronco, you will find a built-in rack on the dashboard. This rack is handy for smartphones, GoPros, keys, change, and other miscellaneous items you don't want to lose. You choose the available leather trim to make the interior of your Bronco look and smell amazing. Additionally, you can opt for rubberized flooring, making cleaning up easy after a day of fun. Capabilities A 4X4 SUV isn't complete without towing capabilities. The 2023 Bronco features a maximum towing capacity of 3,500 pounds. This towing capacity ensures you can haul dirt bikes, quads, or other equipment you want to bring to the mountains. Connectivity The 2023 Bronco comes with an 8-inch or 12-inch multicolor touchscreen, depending on your chosen model and package. In addition, the infotainment system in this SUV makes it easy to utilize Apple CarPlay and Android Auto with your compatible smartphone. If you are ready for a rugged SUV that can take your whole family, camping gear, and kayaks out to the lake this summer, you need to test drive the 2023 Bronco. Contact us at DARCARS Ford of Lanham and talk to our finance department about getting pre-approved for your new SUV today.

Are you considering joining a roadside assistance club but wondering if it's worth it? You may be surprised to learn that being in an auto club can provide many benefits. From 24/7 roadside assistance to discounts on car rentals and car repairs, joining a club is an excellent way to save money and provide yourself with a little extra peace of mind. We'll look at five benefits of joining an automobile club in Lanham, MD. Driving in Lanham, MD: What Are the Benefits of Being in a Motor Club? 1.    Roadside Assistance One of the primary benefits of being in a club is access to roadside assistance. Whether you are stranded with a flat tire, running out of fuel, or have suffered a breakdown, you can call for help and have a mechanic come to your aid. Most auto clubs offer roadside assistance as part of their services, with some even offering 24-hour coverage. Having access to roadside assistance can save you time and money. more 2.    Towing Services Most auto clubs provide 24/7 towing services to their members. If your car breaks down, you don't have to worry about finding a tow truck or paying for the service out of pocket: the club will take care of it for you. You can choose the towing company you want to use, as some auto clubs offer multiple tow truck companies for their members. 3.    Discounts Car clubs offer members a wide range of discounts on services and products related to cars, such as car rentals, car repairs, car parts, and more. Depending on the club you join, you could get access to discounts only available to members. These discounts can add up quickly and make your membership worthwhile. This could help you save a lot of money over the long term, mainly if you frequently use such services. 4.    Access to Exclusive Events One of the many benefits of being a car club member is having access to exclusive events and experiences. Whether you're looking to attend a car show or participate in a road rally, auto clubs often host special events that non-members may need help to attend. Depending on the particular club, these events can range from day trips to multi-day adventures. 5.    A Sense of Community For many, being an auto club member brings a sense of community that can be hard to find elsewhere. Car clubs often organize car shows, social events, and other activities for their members. This allows members to make new friends and network with like-minded individuals. Joining a car club can be a great experience for drivers. The benefits range from roadside assistance, towing services, discounts, access to exclusive events, and a sense of community. Clubs are a great way to get involved for those who love cars and the lifestyle accompanying them. Visit DARCARS Ford of Lanham for all your Ford needs.

For safe driving, car tires should usually always have between 32 and 36 pounds per square inch (PSI) of pressure when cold. This figure varies from car to car, so it's always wise to check the optimal tire pressure of your vehicle. Most drivers in Lanham, MD, and the rest of the state check tire pressure once or twice per month. It's a relatively simple process that shouldn't take you more than a few minutes once you're used to it. Driving in Lanham, MD: How to Check Your Tire Pressure Prepare Your Tools You'll need a tire pressure gauge to measure the PSI. Digital gauges display the PSI on a screen. Manual gauges give you a reading on a dial. Both work equally well, and you can find either one in your local auto parts store. more If your tire pressure is low, you'll also need access to a tire inflator. If you don't own a portable inflator, you can find plenty of air dispensers at gas stations around Maryland. Only Check Tire Pressure When Cold Before you begin, make sure your tires are completely cold. Heated air from driving increases a tire's PSI and gives you a false reading. Wait a few hours after using your car before taking measurements. Early morning is usually a good time to take tire pressure measurements. Remove the Air Valve Cap In the side of your wheel, you'll find the tire's air valve poking through the wheel's inner rim. Take off the cap and keep it in a safe place nearby. You might need a pair of pliers to remove a stiff cap. Press Your Gauge Against the Valve Apply the gauge to the valve mouth, and you'll have your PSI reading after a second or two. Observe if it's higher or lower than the tire's optimal pressure. Add Air If It's Low If the reading is low, use your inflator to add a little air. Then retake the reading. Keep adding a little air and retaking the reading like this until the PSI is just right. Release Air If It's High If your reading is too high, there's a small dot on the back of most gauges that allows you to release air. Press the dot against the valve, and you'll hear the hiss of air escaping. Let a little out, then retake the pressure reading. Repeat this process until the PSI is just right. Screw the Cap Back On Once your PSI is at the correct level, put the cap back on. Then, move on to the next tire and repeat the process. Inspect Your Tires at the Same Time This periodical tire pressure check is a good opportunity to examine your tires for embedded objects or other signs of damage. Look out for any blistering or deep cracks in the rubber. Also, measure your tread depth, which should always be kept from falling below 2/32 of an inch. Have your tires examined today by qualified technicians at DARCARS Ford of Lanham. We're a well-established dealership serving the area's drivers from Seabrook to New Carrollton.

While driving, your spark plugs are firing an incredible 400 times per second. A single plug can be expected to last 30,000 miles or more. But eventually, all plugs crack, burn out, or become too dirty. The following four signs of plug trouble should prompt you to visit your local Ford dealer for replacements. You See Black Smoke In the Rearview Mirror Working in tandem with ignition coils, your plugs ignite the fuel-air mixture that's pumped continually into the combustion chambers. When a plug begins to struggle and falter, all that fuel being pumped in is no longer burning away as it should. This excess fuel gets expelled from the engine through the exhaust system. As a result, you'll see black smoke rising from your tailpipe behind you. On occasion, you'll even see flames in the smoke as the unburned fuel ignites on its way out. more Your Engine Can't Generate Enough Power After years of driving your Ford, you'll be used to how it sounds and feels while on the road. If you find yourself pressing on the gas, but the engine isn't accelerating properly, you might have a problem with your plugs. This lack of power can be felt very clearly while idling. Instead of the nice smooth rumble of a healthy Ford engine, you'll find it coughing and shaking, struggling to stay alive. If more than one plug has failed, your car might even stall. Your Fuel Economy's Dropping With faltering plugs, your engine is no longer burning fuel as efficiently. You'll therefore find yourself stopping for gas more often. If your gas mileage is falling and you also notice other engine problems, you might have a bad plug or two that need replacing. A few other factors can also cause poor fuel economy. These include a clogged air filter, faulty ignition coils, malfunctioning oxygen sensors, exhaust issues, or problems with your catalytic converter. Your Dashboard Warns You The check engine light on your dashboard will almost always come to life when your plugs fail. You won't know exactly what caused the check engine light to blink. You'll need to ask a technician to diagnose and fix the problem. How a Ford Dealer Checks Your Plugs During an inspection, a technician will remove each plug and examine it for cracks or burned electrodes. In the case of serious damage, the plug will have to be thrown out and replaced. Plugs can occasionally become caked in soot, which is easily cleanable. But this superficial problem usually indicates something else has gone wrong in your engine, causing the combustion chambers to create too much sooty residue. Have your engine and plugs inspected today at DARCARS Ford of Lanham. We're a well-established local dealership dedicated to providing excellent customer service and great vehicles. Image by Josch13 from Pixabay

You love your Ford and want to take good care of it. The best thing you can do for your Escape, Edge, or F-150 is to get regular car maintenance from the qualified technicians at your Ford dealership in Lanham, MD. The following maintenance tips will help keep your Ford in tip-top condition and on the road for thousands of miles. 1.    Rely on Ford Experts for Routine Checks If you want your Ford to run at its best, stick to the Ford service schedule and maintenance intervals. It's crucial to rely on the factory-trained Ford technicians at your dealership, who provide top-quality maintenance services. Ford technicians know your car inside and out, use advanced technology and equipment, and fit quality genuine Ford and Motorcraft parts specifically designed for your vehicle. Check your Ford owner's manual for the factory-recommended maintenance intervals for your model. more 2.    Change the Oil Regularly Change your car's oil at the recommended intervals to keep the engine running smoothly. Oil lubricates the moving parts, reduces friction that causes wear, and prolongs the life of your car's engine. Even if your Ford has an oil life monitoring system (OLMS) that warns you when an oil change is due, it's essential to change the oil at least once a year. 3.    Perform Routine Fluid Checks In order for your Ford to run properly, all the fluids in your car must be at the correct levels. Monitor the oil, coolant, brake, transmission, power steering, and windshield washer fluid levels monthly to ensure they are at the proper levels and top them off when necessary. 4.    Don't Ignore Unfamiliar Smells and Sounds You know what your Ford smells and sounds like, and when you suddenly hear strange sounds or smell unpleasant odors, it's a warning that something is wrong. Smells and noises can be caused by various problems, from bad brakes, failing alternators, and radiator problems to worn belts and transmission issues. Get noises and smells checked out as soon as possible before paying a lot of cash for repairs and replacements. 5.    Keep an Eye on the Dashboard Warning Lights If you notice a dashboard warning light is on, there is likely a problem. Never ignore warning lights. Ask your Ford technician for a diagnostic test and get the problem repaired before it causes more damage. 6.    Wash and Wax Your Car A good wash every week or so always makes a car look great, but it also removes road dirt, dust, and bird droppings that can scratch the paint. Wax your vehicle every six months. Wax causes a protective shield that reduces fading, scratching, and rust. If you take care of your Ford, you will enjoy every mile behind the wheel. Contact DARCARS Ford of Lanham today and schedule a maintenance appointment and ensure your Ford runs at its best.