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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.

In summer, having working AC is essential. A car AC not working becomes even more of a problem when the temperatures start to climb. Your AC needs regular service and maintenance to keep it working effectively. As your Ford dealer, we'd like to tell you about some possible signs that your AC needs to be repaired. Damaged Condenser Your AC system consists of several different components. Each of these components needs to work together in order for your AC to work. The condenser is responsible for cooling the refrigerant and changing it from a gas into a liquid. Other parts of the AC system will then use this cold liquid to provide the cold air you need in your cabin. The condenser is located at the front of your car near the radiator. It can, unfortunately, get dirty due to dust and other pollutants drawn into your vehicle. A blocked or damaged condenser won't be able to cool the air for your AC. We routinely check your condenser during its regular service, and our technicians can clean it and remove any blockage causing the problem. more Leaking Refrigerant The air that flows into your car is cooled through the actions of refrigerant. This gas is converted between gaseous and liquid states at various points in the AC cooling process. Without this gas, your AC system won't work. Refrigerant gas can leak from a hole in a pipe, a damaged condenser or compressor, or several other places. The refrigerant gas is invisible and odorless, making leak detection more difficult. Our technicians will pump an ultraviolet dye into the AC system and then use an ultraviolet detector to highlight the area of the leak. Once we've found the source, we can repair or replace the damaged section, stopping the leak. Damaged Compressor The compressor in your AC system is a pump that pumps refrigerant through the AC system under high pressure. When you turn on your AC, you'll hear a faint click. This click is the sound of the compressor clutch activating the compressor. If you hear this sound but your AC isn't getting cold, you may have a refrigerant leak. You might also find that a damaged compressor works harder and faster as your vehicle moves. The increased airflow causes the compressor to work more as speed climbs, as well as work faster due to a rise of pressure in the compressor. A third possible compressor problem is a blown fuse, which has caused the compressor to shut off. Our technicians will check your compressor and repair or replace it. Our technicians can easily fix any AC problem for you. Contact us at DARCARS Ford of Lanham service center and we’ll help you figure out what’s going on with your AC system.

Before getting your unrestricted Maryland driver's license, you must complete and log over a dozen hours of driving with an approved driver in the passenger seat. You also must keep your driving record clean for 18 months. To ensure you get your driver's license as quickly as possible, keep reading to discover four tips for student drivers in Lanham, MD. 4 Tips for Student Drivers in Lanham, MD 1.    Check the Weather Before You Leave the House The only way to get better at driving in different conditions is to practice driving in other conditions. However, if you are very new to driving, check the weather before leaving the house to practice driving. If the roads are a little wet because it has been raining, you may be okay to go for a practice drive with an approved driver. However, consider staying home if it is actively raining, extremely windy, or snowing. If you choose to drive when it rains, remember that you should go slower due to increased braking distance requirements and turn your headlights on. 2.    Don't Drive While Impaired Nobody should ever drive while impaired, but it is imperative not to drive while impaired if you are a student driver. For example, you should not drive under the influence of alcohol. However, it is also vital to not drive under the influence of other drugs, like marijuana or muscle relaxants. Furthermore, you should not drive when you did not get a good night's rest the night before. more 3.    Don't Drive While Distracted It is also imperative that you are not distracted when you drive. Every year, thousands of people die from distracted driving. Pick and set your desired music before you start driving your vehicle, and do not change your music while you are driving. Do not daydream while driving, regardless of how familiar you are with the roads you need to take to reach your desired destination. Also, do not eat or text while you drive. 4.    Keep Your Vehicle in Good Working Order Finally, you must keep your vehicle in good working order. As a general rule of thumb, you should check your tire pressure monthly. Tires often lose around one pound of pressure per square inch per month. While this may not seem like a lot, it can seriously affect your vehicle's steering and braking capabilities. Also, ensure your coolant levels are okay and get your tires rotated every six months. If you are a student driver, you must check the weather before leaving the house. If it is going to snow, strongly consider going out to practice driving. If the road is wet from recent rain, make sure you drive slowly and leave plenty of braking distance between you and the vehicle in front of you. Don't drive while distracted or impaired. Learn more by contacting us today at DARCARS Ford of Lanham on Lanham Severn Road.

Anyone looking for a heavy-duty truck should consider the 2022 Ford F-350. This new model has many impressive features, and the Ford F-350 has all the power you've been looking for. Incredible payload and towing capability make it the truck to beat. Visit us at DARCARS Ford of Lanham so we can show you what this truck can do. What You Need to Know About the 2022 Ford F-350 Engine The Ford F-350 has a standard gas 6.2-liter V-8 engine that produces 385 horsepower. You can also choose to power up with a 7.3-liter V-8 that makes an impressive 430 horsepower. If that's not enough, Ford also offers a 6.7-liter turbocharged diesel V-8, producing a staggering 475 horsepower. All engines have a 10-speed automatic transmission. Drivers can choose between the standard rear-wheel drive or the all-wheel drive. more Performance The Ford F-350 offers a smooth ride when the bed is loaded. This vehicle handles well on the highway as well as in the city. This heavy-duty truck has responsive braking and easily managed steering at low speeds and confined spaces. Towing and Payload Due to various cab and cargo bed options, this heavy-duty truck has a wide range of towing and payload capabilities. The smallest payload with the F-350 crew cab is 2,890 pounds. The F-350 with the diesel engine can carry the heaviest load. This monster of a machine allows for a payload of 21,200 pounds, and it can tow an unbelievable 35,750 pounds. The F-350 offers enough power to satisfy the most demanding driver. Interior The F-350 offers a roomy and practical design for the cab. It is ideal for the working professional. The F-350 can be a simple work truck or a luxurious vehicle, depending on your options. Drivers can opt for ambient lighting and heated seats. Pricier options include features like massaging seats which might be appreciated after a long day. Infotainment and Connectivity The XL models all have a standard touchless display screen, and the XLT model has an 8.0-inch touchscreen. Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a Wi-Fi hotspot are included. Safety Features Most of the F-350 lineup can be equipped with numerous driver assistance technologies. The trucks have standard safety features such as automatic high beams, cruise control, and lane-keeping assist. New Features of the Ford F-350 Ford added several great features to its 2022 lineup of heavy-duty trucks. The frame of the F-350 has been reinforced to offer a more stable ride. Ford's SYNC 4 satellite radio comes standard with every Lariat trim. There are also new interior colors, Baja and Black Onyx, and you will find added armrest storage on the XL models. Drivers will love the new 360-LED warning strobe lights. The F-350 is a powerful truck with all the features you could want. Drivers can choose the options they want and build the truck of their dreams. Visit us at DARCARS Ford of Lanham for a test drive today. One drive is all it will take to appreciate the power under this truck's hood.

Switching your vehicle's tires to different positions promotes even wear, safety, and longevity. For maximum tire life, rotate your car's tires every 5,000 miles or when you take your vehicle for an oil change. Regular tire rotations at your Ford Service Center in Lanham, MD, will ensure that your tires last longer and help you save money. 1.    Your Tires Will Last Longer To make your tires last longer, ask your Ford technician to rotate your tires every time you take your car for an oil change. The technician will take your tires off and swap all four tires on your vehicle to different positions. By repositioning the tires, they will wear down at an equal rate and last longer. You will find the rotation intervals for your model and year in your owner's manual or speak to your Ford technician for assistance. 2.    The Tread Will Wear Evenly The tread on your tires wears down differently, so regular rotations are crucial. If you drive a front-wheel-drive car, the front tires are used for steering, turning, and braking and they will wear faster than the rear tires. The rear tires are crossed to the front, and the front tires are rotated to the rear on front-wheel-drive vehicles. more Regular rotations will ensure that your tires wear down evenly and last longer. Check your owner's manual for the correct rotation patterns for your specific model, or ask your Ford technician for information. 3.    Rotations Will Limit Vibrations When the tire tread wears unevenly, it causes vibrations that can be felt through the steering wheel. Over time the vibrations will affect your vehicle's wheel alignment and balancing and even cause damage to your car's components. When tires are rotated regularly, they reduce uneven tread wear and limit vibrations. 4.    Increases Your Safety Regularly repositioning your car's tires ensures that the tread depth on all the tires is the same. Equal tread depth will improve handling and your car's performance on the road. Regular rotations will give you more traction to safely brake, accelerate, and corner, especially on wet, snowy, and icy roads. 5.    Your Tires Will Be in Good Condition When you rotate your tires at your dealership, the Ford technician will inspect each tire thoroughly. This is a great benefit because you will have the peace of mind that your tires are in excellent condition to keep you safe on the road. The technician will inspect each tire for damage such as bulges and cracks and check the tread depth. Your car's tires will also be inflated to the correct pressure levels to ensure they wear evenly and last longer. 6.     You Will Save Money Routinely swapping your tires and having qualified Ford technicians perform tire inspections will ensure that they wear down evenly. Your tires will last for longer, and you will not have to buy a new set of tires as often. It's also more expensive to replace and install just one tire at a time than to return the entire collection of tires. Asking your Ford technician to rotate your car's tires regularly comes with many benefits. Best of all, regular rotations will save you money. Visit DARCARS Ford of Lanham today and ask one of our certified technicians to rotate your vehicle's tires to promote even wear that will make your tires last longer.

The tires on your car play a crucial role in your vehicle's handling and braking performance. Always ensuring that your tires are in good condition will drastically increase your safety on the road. When it's time to get new tires for your car, trust your Ford dealer for the best high-quality tires and expert installations performed in a flash by qualified Ford technicians. Below are ways to determine if it's time to replace your old tires with a brand-new set. Old Tires Most tire manufacturers suggest replacing your old tires with a new set every six years. This is because structural changes occur over time due to road conditions and extreme temperatures. Old tires will affect handling and braking performance and severely reduce your safety on the road, especially in inclement weather conditions. If you are unsure of the age of your tires, visit your dealership and ask a Ford technician to check your car's tires to determine if it's time for new ones. more Falling Air Pressure If you notice that your tires constantly lose pressure, and you frequently have to inflate them, you should replace the tires. Loss of air pressure could indicate a small leak in the tire. The leak could be patched. But it might be better to ask your Ford technician to inspect the tire to make sure that the tire is still safe enough to use. Worn Tread When you notice that the tread on the tires is low, it's time to start thinking of replacing the tires. The easiest way to determine if you need new rubber is to perform the old penny test. You have to stick a penny with Lincoln's head pointing down in the grooves. If you can see the top of the head, the tread is worn, and you need to replace the tires. A tread depth gauge is a handy gadget that will give you a tread depth reading. If the reading is lower than 2.32 inches, you need to get a new set of tires at your dealership as soon as you can. Visible Wear Indicator Bars The wear indicator bars show when your tires are worn. The wear indicator bars are raised rubber bars that are barely visible when the tires are new. As the tread of your tires wears down, the wear indicator bars become more visible. When you can see the bars, it's an indication that it's time for a new set of tires. Uneven Tread Wear Tires wear down at different rates due to either improper inflation or misalignment. Some parts on your tires might look good, and others could appear worn down. That is why the proper tire pressure and regular tire rotations are vital. It ensures even wear, but your tires will also last longer. You will find the information on the correct tire pressure and rotation intervals in your owner's manual, or you can ask your Ford technician for assistance. Bubbles and Cracks If you notice that your tires are damaged and see cracks or bubbles on the tire's sidewall, you will have to replace your car's tires. Bubbles develop when there is a weak spot in the rubber and air gets into the internal layers of the tire. Cracks form when the tires are old. The rubber dries out, becomes brittle, and cracks start to form. Driving around with damaged tires is dangerous. It could cause blowouts that can lead to you losing control of your car and causing an accident. Ensure your tires are in good condition with plenty of tread left to ensure excellent handling and braking performance. For a range of quality brand tires, visit DARCARS Ford today. We take your safety and the safety of your passengers seriously.

Coming into your Ford dealer in Lanham, MD, gives you the peace of mind that comes from knowing skilled mechanics have checked your vehicle for any maintenance concerns. An engine diagnostic check is one of these mechanics' tools to determine if your car has any problems. Here are some ways to have a diagnostic assessment performed that will help you keep your vehicle healthy. 1.    Electrical Issues Various components of your vehicle use electricity to communicate with one another. Sometimes, faults with the vehicle's electrical systems are apparent and easy to notice, showing up as problems like flickering interior lights or windows that open slowly. Other electrical misfires can be less overt in how they show up. Getting a diagnostic check-up can help detect any electrical faults that may be present in your vehicle so they can be fixed before they become an issue. 2.    Faults in the Brakes Brakes that are functioning correctly are essential to the safe operation of your vehicle, letting you respond to obstacles appropriately. That makes it necessary to recognize any potential problems with your brakes or brake pads early so that they don't cause a potentially dangerous situation. Your technician can address any possible issues your brakes may have after identifying the issue with a diagnostic check. more 3.    Emissions Issues Engines must meet specific standards regarding the environmental emissions they discharge while the vehicle is in operation. Meeting these standards is crucial as you may face penalties or not pass your yearly inspection if your emissions are not up to regulation. Bring your vehicle in for a check-up to ensure there are no problems with the emissions coming from your engine, making your travels more eco-friendly. 4.    Overall Engine Health Specific problems may come with obvious symptoms that clue you in that a problem is present. However, sometimes your engine might have particular issues that can be present even if the engine seems to be operating correctly. Get a diagnostic to check for any problems you may not have noticed throughout your routine driving. You'll be able to drive away with the reassurance that everything is working correctly. 5.    What to Do Next While getting a diagnostic check-up is a crucial step in keeping your vehicle running correctly, it's only the first step in fixing any problems. Once your mechanic has run the diagnostics on your car, they'll be able to develop a service plan that will address any of the difficulties the diagnostics check detected. That will address any concerns you may have so your vehicle performs precisely how you need it. Is your vehicle due for a check-up? Our skilled technicians have all the tools and experience needed to sort out any problems and provide all the service your vehicle needs to keep running right. Visit DARCARS Ford of Lanham today!

All cars will eventually need a new car battery. So, you should be aware of the signs to watch out for, that indicate your battery is starting to fail. To get that battery replaced, you need to schedule a service appointment at your trusted Ford dealer in Lanham, MD. The following indicators should help you figure out when it’s time to come in to have your car battery tested. 1.    Your Battery Is Old A car battery will work at its best for 3 to 5 years. If your battery is more than five years old, it's likely to stop working soon. Always replace your battery before it reaches the five-year mark in your vehicle, as you'll save yourself some inconvenience this way. 2.    Your Battery Leaks Inspect your battery regularly. If you spot a leak or corrosion around it, it's time to replace it. The acid leaking out of your battery can damage your engine, requiring a costlier repair than a simple battery replacement. more 3.    Your Battery Is Swollen or Dented Your battery should be in a rectangular, unblemished case. If it starts looking swollen or dented, then it's damaged. You need to switch out this battery for a new one as soon as you can, as this will help you avoid further issues caused by your battery. 4.    Your Battery Smells Strange If you smell rotten eggs when you pop the hood, your battery may be leaking. In some cases, you may be able to smell this odor in your cabin. Be sure to get to the dealer straight away, as you don't want to let this problem go. 5.    Your Battery Warning Light Comes On Your dashboard should have a light shaped like a battery on it. If it doesn't, it will have the letters "ALT" or "GEN" on it. This is your battery warning light, and if it comes on, you have a problem with your battery. The problem is usually minor, and it could just be a sign that your battery is getting ready to stop working. However, it can also indicate a more serious issue, so head to the dealer as soon as you notice the light on your dashboard. 6.    Your Battery Is Causing Electrical Issues If your radio stops working, your headlights start flickering, and your seat warmers take forever to heat up, you may have a battery issue. Your battery isn't supplying enough power to all of the electrical components in your vehicle. However, keep in mind that a malfunctioning alternator can also cause these issues. Ensure you get both the alternator and battery checked out when electrical problems arise in your vehicle. 7.    Your Battery Dies If your vehicle just doesn't start one morning, you probably have a dead battery. Sometimes seasonal changes can cause a dead battery, but most of the time, a dead battery is a sign that it's time to replace it soon. Get somebody to jumpstart your vehicle, and then you can drive to the dealer to get your battery checked out. However, if your car dies again shortly after being jumpstarted, your alternator might be at fault. Get your car battery examined if one of the signs above shows up in your vehicle. Come to DARCARS Ford of Lanham, and we'll be happy to test it and replace it for you.

To guarantee that your Ford lasts you as long as possible, regularly visit your local Ford dealer in Lanham, MD. We offer maintenance service, a free battery check, and hassle-free repairs after an incident on the road. Read on to find out how we can help you take care of your vehicle, no matter what happens. 1.    General Service Every year, you should come to the dealership at least once to have your Ford serviced. If you drive in unfavorable conditions or you've used your car more than average, you might need to have maintenance service more often. By getting your vehicle checked out regularly, even if there are no problems, you can help prevent a hefty repair bill later on and prolong the life of your car. Not all issues have apparent symptoms, such as noises or smells, and you might not be able to tell that your car has a problem simply by driving it. For this reason, it makes sense to have all of your vehicle's systems checked out regularly. In most cases, maintenance work is much cheaper than repairs to parts that have been broken for a while. This is also why you always need to have your car serviced when the check engine light comes on. more 2.    A Battery Test Modern Ford cars are very high-tech, so you must keep your battery in the best shape possible. You can expect it to last around five years, but this will depend on how often you drive your car. When the battery needs to be replaced, you will see a check engine or check battery light on your dashboard. You may also notice an odor of rotten eggs or that your engine is very slow to start. At our dealership, we will perform tests and diagnose the problem. If you need a new battery, we will fit your car with the most advanced original Ford battery, so you can take advantage of the best technology but still retain the integrity of your vehicle. In addition, you will benefit from the parts and labor warranty we offer. 3.    Quick Repair after an Incident When you've been in a collision or damaged your car, you want to get back on the road as fast as possible. Our highly trained and qualified technicians can get your vehicle back to normal in no time, and you can rent one of our new cars for the duration of the repairs. That way, you can be sure your car is getting the best care, but you don't have to miss any critical appointments in the meantime. Taking great care of your Ford vehicle doesn't have to be hard work. By visiting your local dealership regularly, you can keep on top of the car's condition and do any repairs promptly. We can also help you by repairing your vehicle after a road accident. Call us at DARCARS Ford of Lanham to learn more about our excellent service options.

Our Quick Lane Tire and Auto Center is your one-stop-shop for all your crucial vehicle needs. You don't need to make an appointment, and your vehicle will be serviced nights and over weekends while you wait. Best of all only trusted Ford and Motorcraft parts are used, and we stock quality name-brand tires. 1.      General Maintenance and Repairs Ford trains our skilled, certified technicians specifically to work on your vehicle. They know everything there is to know to keep your Ford the rugged, durable, and reliable vehicle it's built to be. 2.      Thorough Vehicle Inspections Our technicians will perform an inspection of all the key components and systems. You will be supplied with a complete vehicle report on the maintenance your vehicle requires. 3.      Tire Purchases, Care, and Maintenance At your nearest Quick Lane Tire and Auto Care Center, we've got you covered. Our tire experts perform a full tire service based on your vehicle needs. When you purchase tires from us, we include tire rotation, mounting, and balancing. more 4.      Oil Change Service We offer the best quality oil and filters to make your vehicle more fuel-efficient and extend the life of your car. Our technicians use Motorcraft Synthetic Blend Oil with specially designed performance additives. This will ensure that your car is protected from rust and corrosion and has extra protection against wear and tear. 5.      Brake Inspections and Replacements Your vehicle's brake system is the most critical safety feature, and regular inspections are crucial to keep you safe. Our technicians will inspect your vehicle's brake system and fit only high-quality parts when needed. 6.      Battery Test Ask us to perform a complimentary computerized battery test. Our technicians will know when your vehicle's battery needs to be replaced. They will install the correct, quality battery for your specific vehicle. Our dependable Motorcraft batteries are specifically designed and engineered for modern, high-tech cars. Our battery warranty covers all our batteries. 7.      Cooling System Inspections Visit our Quick Lane Tire and Auto Center for a coolant system inspection to see if any components are damaged or worn. The technician will check the hoses for damages and leaks and inform you of any needed repairs and replacements. 8.      Inspection of Belts and Hoses A regular inspection of your vehicle's belts and hoses for cracks and leaks will ensure that you stay on the road. We stock a full range of quality belts and hoses and can expertly replace them while you wait.   We pride ourselves on quality artistry, superior customer care, and service excellence. Visit DARCARS Ford of Lanham today. Our skilled technicians will take expert care of all your vehicle needs.