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Ford Interior Lanham, MD

Maintaining Your Ford Brake System: Safety First

Your brake system is a vital component to the on-road safety of your vehicle, so it's essential to make sure your brakes are always in good condition. If your brakes have too much wear and tear or are not performing correctly, you may not be able to bring your car to an emergency stop in time. Learn everything you need to know about Ford brake maintenance before you visit your local dealership. How to Maintain Your Vehicle’s Brakes Routine brake service is typically performed once a year to help identify wear and tear damage to the brake system. Specifically, Ford mechanics can check the thickness of your brake pads, the condition of brake rotors, and the level of brake fluid. All three of these components must be in good condition in order for your vehicle to operate safely on the road. In general, brake pads and rotors can typically last for a couple of years before they need to be replaced. Similarly, brake fluid usually only needs to be replaced every two years, unless there is an obvious leak. By keeping up with these routine brake services, you can help prevent major damage to the brake system and help avoid costly repairs. more Signs Your Brakes Are Failing There are a few things that can indicate a poorly functioning brake system, like the feel of a soft brake. A soft or spongy brake pedal may be caused by air in the brake line or it could mean that your vehicle has low brake fluid. Brakes that vibrate or squeal when applied can also be a sign of a failing brake system, typically caused by worn-down brake pads or rotors. To help prevent brake damage or excessive wear and tear, it's best to avoid driving habits that can stress your brake system. Constantly riding your brakes, hauling a load too heavy for your vehicle, or driving aggressively can all contribute to wearing down your brake system. Ask Your Ford Dealer in Lanham, MD About Ford Service Offers You can help cut down on the cost of routine Ford service by taking advantage of the limited-time Ford service and parts specials available at our dealership. Before heading in for your next maintenance appointment, see what kind of saving options are available in our current repair and service offers. Routine brake inspection and other services can help your Ford perform safely on the road. Get in touch with DARCARS Ford of Lanham to schedule brake service today.

Battery Service Lanham, MD

Maintaining Your Ford Battery: Tips for Longevity

Car batteries have a great lifespan of three to five years, but there are things you can do to help yours last as long as possible. Between the work you do at home and the checks the technicians at the dealership do during Ford battery maintenance, you can help prevent your battery from failing. Ford Battery Maintenance Get Your Voltage Tested Make sure you ask for your battery voltage to be tested any time you visit the dealer for other forms of maintenance. If your technician discovers your battery has less than the recommended voltage, then they can investigate and figure out what the problem is. Getting your battery voltage tested and keeping it at the right level is important and can help prevent unexpected breakdowns. more Clean the Terminals Inspect your battery regularly so you'll notice if the case changes shape or if corrosion appears on the terminals. Corrosion makes your battery need to work harder, as this flaky, crystal-like buildup increases electrical resistance between the battery post and the terminal. Corrosion can get cleaned off, and if the corrosion keeps coming back quickly, then a visit to the dealer to get your battery checked over is a good idea. Avoid Extreme Temperatures You want to try and keep your vehicle out of extreme temperatures; both hot and cold. Your battery may work harder when it is very cold outside. You also don't want the battery in your car to get too hot as this can affect the battery and its longevity. Longer Distance Drives Driving longer distances gives your battery enough time to fully recharge. Taking lots of shorter trips instead of longer ones doesn't give it ample time to get the charge back up. So, if it's possible, try to limit the amount of quick trips you take. Get a Battery Load Test You need to be certain that your battery can charge properly, so make sure getting a battery load test is part of your regular maintenance routine. If the test yields results showing your battery can't charge the way it should, then your technician can investigate why it’s struggling to charge and look into fixing the problem. Book a Ford Battery Appointment in Lanham, MD Come to DARCARS Ford of Lanham for any battery checks you need. Schedule an appointment with our service center by visiting our website today.

Collision Repair Lanham, MD

Need a Collision Center in Lanham, MD?

When accidents happen, trust our team for high-quality repairs and exceptional service. As a certified Collision Center, our facility combines expert technicians, cutting-edge repair technology, and genuine Ford parts to ensure your vehicle is restored to its optimal condition. Whether you've been in a minor fender bender or need extensive bodywork, our staff is here to deliver the reliable, factory-approved service that keeps Ford drivers coming back. Available Services at Our Certified Collision Center and Body Shop When your vehicle needs professional repair, trust is key. We offer a full range of certified repair services designed to restore your vehicle's performance and appearance with industry-leading precision. Using advanced repair technologies and certified technicians, the center ensures that each vehicle meets factory standards post-repair. Whether dealing with minor dents or major structural issues, our Collision Center handles all repairs with expertise, providing customers with confidence in their vehicle's performance. more At our DARCARS Collision Center, we understand the importance of using OEM parts in all repairs, which is why we prioritize genuine manufacturer components. OEM parts offer a better fit, longer-lasting quality, and help maintain your vehicle’s value. Plus, we work directly with insurance companies, making the process seamless for you. Trust us to get you back to the convenience of having your own vehicle, without any compromises on quality. When you choose us, you’ll find that we work alongside insurance companies and provide a streamlined repair process for customers. With a focus on quality, transparency, and customer satisfaction, the DARCARS Collision Center of Lanham aims to get drivers back on the road quickly and safely. Your vehicle will also get a car wash and we offer rentals cars if needed! Scheduling Repairs and Getting a Free Estimate at Our Lanham, MD Collision Center Taking the next step in your vehicle’s repair process is easy. You can schedule repairs directly through our Collision Center, where we offer convenience and customer satisfaction every step of the way. Start with a free repair estimate—our service team will evaluate your vehicle's condition and provide a transparent quote, so you know exactly what to expect. Restoring your vehicle is our priority, and we’re here to make the process as efficient and straightforward as possible.

Ford Service in Lanham, MD

4 Services Offered by Your Local Ford Dealer in Lanham, MD

Ford vehicles are renowned for their reliability, but routine maintenance is required. Today, we're looking at 4 Ford services offered by your local Ford dealer to help your vehicle run reliably as long as possible or get it back on the road quickly. 1. Oil Change Oil changes are an important part of your standard maintenance checklist. To help keep your motor running strong, you need to bring your Ford in regularly for an oil change. Check inside your owner's manual for maintenance intervals, where oil changes are typically every 7,500 miles. more 2. Brake Repair Your brake system plays a big role in helping to keep you and your loved ones safe on the road. If your brakes squeal or grind, your brake pedal feels spongy, or your dashboard is lit up with a service indicator light, schedule a brake inspection right away. One of our Ford-certified technicians will inspect your brake system to determine which of your brake system's components is failing. After that, we'll advise you on the best solution. You may need a: Disc brake repair Parking brake adjustment Drum brake repair 3. Tire Rotation Getting your tires rotated around every 5,000 miles helps ensure your tires wear evenly. There are various factors that can also influence when you need a tire rotation so it's important to bring your Ford in routinely to see if a tire rotation is needed. 4. Transmission Service Your transmission is a crucial part of your powertrain, and it requires periodic maintenance just like other vital vehicle parts. Periodically, your Ford needs to come in for an automatic transmission fluid exchange. Just like clean engine oil helps protect your motor, transmission fluid is critical for an optimally functioning transmission. At the same time, you may need to get a filter change. Whether you need maintenance or a repair, we have you covered. Why You Should Get Ford Service from Your Local Dealership in Lanham, MD You should have your local dealership service your Ford to ensure that your vehicle gets the quality service it needs. Our qualified technicians stay up-to-date on training and can perform maintenance to help extend your vehicle's longevity. We also have the diagnostic equipment and OEM parts to correct any major problem you have. Our skilled professionals can help extend your vehicle's longevity and repair it. If your Ford needs to be serviced, contact us at DARCARS Ford of Lanham to schedule a service appointment.

oil being poured in a funnel feeding the car engine | Lanham, MD

The Ultimate Guide to Maintaining Your Ford: Tips from Lanham's Experts

Ford maintenance is crucial to helping your car last longer and provide a smooth ride. Everything from sticking to the service schedule to keeping your car clean adds up to a vehicle you can be proud of. Here is a long list of things you can do to maintain your car, courtesy of your local Ford dealer in Lanham, MD. Follow the Service Schedule for Oil Changes If you want to make sure your Ford stays in good condition long-term, one of the best things to do is be sure you never miss an oil change. Our experts recommend sticking to Ford's guidelines for oil changes, usually every 5,000 to 7,500 miles. more Prioritize Brake System Maintenance Underperforming brakes are a serious hazard. Pay close attention to any changes in noises or stopping power when you apply the brake. These symptoms might point to worn brake pads or discs. Don't Forget Battery Care Your car's battery won't last forever, only about three to five years. Check on your battery regularly, looking for obvious signs of trouble like corrosion, leaks, or a swollen battery case. If your car is having a hard time starting or your battery is getting old, it's a good idea to have it tested. Perform Fluid Level Checks Oil isn't the only fluid your car needs to run correctly. Transmission fluid, coolant, brake fluid, and power steering fluid all need to be topped up or replaced over time. Replace Your Filters Engine and cabin air filters help prevent contaminants from entering the engine and interior of your car. Over time, filters become clogged, reducing airflow and affecting your car's performance. Get Regular Inspections Routine inspections are vital for catching any potential issues before they escalate into expensive repairs. Regular checks by our professionals can help identify wear and tear or damage that may not be immediately obvious to the untrained eye. Keep It Clean Regular washing and waxing help protect the paintwork and undercarriage of your car, helping to prevent rust and corrosion. Keeping your interior clean makes driving your car more pleasant and helps preserve its resale value. Drive Responsibly Aggressive driving, like rapid acceleration and hard braking, stresses your engine, brakes, and tires unnecessarily. Adopting a smoother driving style can help extend the lifespan of your car. Get Professional Ford Maintenance at Your Ford Dealer in Lanham, MD While there are many things you can do personally for your car, there's no substitute for professional servicing. Our certified Ford technicians have the expertise, tools, and genuine parts to keep your vehicle in top condition. Investing time and care into your Ford is an investment in its future, ensuring it stays with you for many miles to come. If you're ready to take care of your Ford, call to book an appointment or schedule one online with DARCARS Ford of Lanham today.

Ford Emblem | Lanham, MD

Connect. Control. Communicate: FordPass

While driving around Lanham, MD, you may have noticed the exciting new roster of Ford models populating the road. Let's talk about one of the most useful features of these trailblazers: the FordPass app. FordPass App: Reimagined Customer Service FordPass is the legendary automaker's answer to maximum convenience and flexibility for Ford owners. Launched in 2016, it's a multi-faceted customer service experience you can access via the Ford website or through a mobile app. Simply sign up for a Ford account, and you'll use the same information for this account to log into FordPass. more Since 2021, every Ford off the assembly line comes with FordPass available. You can access Ford's enhanced customer relationship experience whether you fancy the Ford F-150 truck, the high-octane Mustang sportscar, the efficient and electrified Escape SUV, or any ride in between. So, what does the FordPass provide you? Connect Worry about keeping up with cumbersome manuals and maintenance records no more. With a few presses and swipes in the app, you'll have all the intel on your Ford you'll ever need at your fingertips within seconds. Important maintenance information you can easily retrieve includes warranty, oil levels, battery depletion, mileage, service history, and scheduling. Your app will be your Ford's faithful physician, too. If concerning problems are detected (such as a high temperature), you'll receive an immediate alarm on your phone courtesy of the health alert feature. You'll get up-to-date information about recalls as well. You'll even benefit from step-by-step tips on how to fix your problem and be able to schedule a service appointment right through your app. Control Purchase a Ford with an installed FordPass Connect modem, and you'll open up a whole avenue of remote opportunities: start and stop your vehicle, lock and unlock it, and even set the interior temperature without leaving your home. Communicate If you encounter a driving emergency, rest easier with the FordPass 24/7 access to roadside assistance. Obtain services like tire changes, jump-starts, fuel delivery, lock-out assistance, or towing. For the most urgent cases, 911 is only a touch away. Payment is also a cinch with FordPass Wallet, where you can add a payment method and secure parts and services from your mobile device within moments. Reaping the Rewards in Lanham, MD You can score tens of thousands of redeemable points simply by buying or leasing a new or pre-owned Ford. You'll earn more points every time you take advantage of Ford maintenance or products. Keep tally in the app, and when you're ready, trade in your earned points for all kinds of available freebies and discounts. You can slash the purchase price with your rewards if it's time for another Ford. Start the best auto-buying experience today. Contact DARCARS Ford of Lanham, and let us show you why customer service always comes first.

Ford Service

What Are Available Ford Maintenance Plans?

Investing in a Ford Protection Plan will help give you extra peace of mind and safeguard your budget even after the warranty runs out. The Ford Maintenance Protection Plan, Ford Protect Extended Service Plan, Ford PremiumCARE Extended Service Plan, and the Ford Maintenance Protection Plan with WearCare are all designed to help ensure that your car and bank balance stay in the best shape. What Protection Plans Does Ford Offer? The Ford Maintenance Protection Plan The Maintenance Protection Plan is designed to keep your car in tip-top condition and run smoothly throughout its life. Great maintenance should help ensure that the resale value remains high, so it's one of the best ways to optimize your investment. You can choose the extent of your coverage, from two to eight years, and will be covered for: more • Brake pads, linings, and rotors • Oil changes and filters • Tire rotations • Engine belts • Spark plugs • Wiper blades • Shock absorbers Your car will also receive multipoint inspections, and fluids will be checked, replaced, and refilled. All Ford dealers in the US cover the plan, and you're guaranteed Ford-approved parts and service. The Ford Protect Extended Service Plan An Extended Service Plan covers the cost of parts that need replacing through defects or just normal wear and tear. Coverage comes in four tiers: • PremiumCARE • ExtraCARE • BaseCARE • PowertrainCARE Depending on the tier, these plans can provide coverage for the replacement of hundreds or even thousands of components. Electric vehicle drivers can access the PremiumCARE, ExtraCARE, and BaseCARE packages. The Ford PremiumCARE Extended Service Plan The PremiumCARE package is the most popular and comprehensive of the Extended Service Plans. It covers any necessary replacement parts for the engine, suspension, brakes, electrical systems, transmission, and steering and will help protect you from unexpected expense for 10 years, or 170,000 miles. In total, over 1,000 components are included in the PremiumCARE package. The Ford Maintenance Protection Plan with WearCare No matter how carefully you drive, it's impossible to guarantee that your car won't suffer small amounts of damage and wear. For more general protection with a lease, the WearCare plan provides coverage for a certain amount of normal wear and tear that might occur for the duration of your lease. It's available for up to 48 months and will cover missing parts of up to a certain value. Please check your Lanham Ford dealership for additional details. Ford Protect offers numerous other packages that can be tailored to meet your needs and budget, including TheftCARE, WindshieldCARE, and DentCARE, so you're guaranteed to find just the right level of coverage to provide you with both a car that runs perfectly and complete peace of mind. To learn more, stop by and see us at DARCARS Ford of Lanham, speak to our experts at our Ford Service Center, and discuss your precise needs.

2023 Ford Explorer | Lanham, MD

Tips and Tricks for Maintaining Your Ford Vehicle's Performance

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!

Car Parts | Lanham, MD

What Are OEM Parts and Why Are They Important for My Ford Vehicle?

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.

Overheated Engine | Lanham, MD

Do You Need to Replace the Engine on Your Ford?

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.

Car Brakes | Lanham, MD

How Often Should Maryland Drivers Get New Brake Pads?

Brake pads are critical components in your car's braking system. When you step on the brake pedal, the pads create friction when pressed against the rotors to slow your car down and bring it to a stop. Replacing the pads before they wear down too much will help give you the stopping power you need to be safe on the roads in and around Lanham, MD. How Often Should Lanham, MD Drivers Get New Brake Pads? Pad Life and Mileage How long pads last varies greatly, from 25,000 to 70,000 miles, depending on how often you use your brakes. The new pads are eight to twelve millimeters thick, and the lining wears thinner every time you step on the brake pedal. If you frequently brake hard, drive-in stop-and-go traffic, or on hilly roads where downhill braking is required, you will likely have to replace the pads more often. To stay safe, consider replacing the pads between 40,000 and 50,000 miles. more Pad Thickness For the pads to work effectively, they must be thicker than 6.4 millimeters to stop your car. Replace the pads when they are between 3.2 and 6.4 millimeters thick to ensure your safety. If they are less than 3.2 millimeters thick, replace them immediately to help prevent your brakes from failing. Inspection Intervals It's a good idea to get the pads checked by a certified technician every 7,500 miles or at least once a year when you take your vehicle for an oil change. When you get the pads routinely inspected and the pad lining thickness measured, the technician will be able to replace them before they wear too thin. This way, you shouldn’t have to worry about brake failure and should be able to stop your car on a dime. Replacement Signs Luckily there are also a few signs that will warn you when it's time to replace the pads. If you notice it takes longer for your vehicle to stop, the linings are worn and not providing the necessary friction to slow your car down. Pads worn unevenly will cause your vehicle to veer to the left or right when you apply the brakes. If you hear high-pitched squealing sounds, they’re coming from the metal burrs or wear indicators built into the pads to warn you it's time to replace the pads. If you don't replace them, they'll eventually wear down completely. When they are completely worn down, you'll start to hear grinding noises from the bare metal scraping against the steel rotors. This will cause them to overheat and eventually warp, which will be expensive to repair. Driving around with worn and thin pads is extremely dangerous. Don't compromise your safety or the safety of your passengers and other motorists. Contact our Ford Service Center at DARCARS Ford of Lanham for a pad inspection, measurement, and top-quality pads to ensure your brakes work properly.

Close up of Car Tires rolling | Lanham, MD

Driving in Maryland: What to Do if You Get a Flat Tire

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.

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