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Ford F-150 Recommended Maintenance Schedule Maintaining your Ford F-150 involves recognizing how crucial each maintenance activity is to guarantee the longevity of your vehicle’s overall health. Every part of your Ford F-150 works together seamlessly, from regular oil changes that help the engine run smoothly to replacing the spark plugs for maximum fuel efficiency. At Blake Ford, our specialized team of technicians is dedicated to helping you keep your truck in top working condition through detailed Ford F-150 maintenance and inspections. Schedule your next service appointment online today! Always consult your owner’s manual for a more complete maintenance schedule to guarantee your vehicle’s optimal performance and durability. Routine Maintenance Schedule: What To Expect During Service At Each Mileage Oil and Oil Filter Replaced As part of your routine Ford F-150 maintenance plan, it’s essential that you replace the oil and have the filters replaced around every 5,000 to 10,000 miles. Engine oil keeps your truck’s engine components free from friction and damage and the oil filter prevents build-up of clogging debris. Rotate Tires Extend the lifespan of your Ford F-150’s tires by performing tire rotation at regular service intervals, ideally around every 5,000 miles. This crucial maintenance task also helps to improve traction both on and off the road for a much safer and more controlled driving experience. Inspection Of Belts, Hoses, and Fluids Every time you bring your Ford F-150 for maintenance, you have an excellent opportunity to inspect every belt, hose, and fluid tank for potential signs of trouble and to replace any brake, transmission, coolant, or windshield washer fluid, as well as check the drive belts. Ford F-150 30K Mile Maintenance: Replacing Filters and Fluids By Mileage Replace Engine Air Filter When the engine air filter becomes clogged, it can lead to decreased engine power and heightened fuel usage. To safeguard your engine against dirt, dust, and other contaminants for maximum efficiency and high-level performance, replace the engine air filter around every 30,000 miles for optimal operation. Cabin Air Filter Replaced Prevent any build-up of allergens, dust, or pollutants within the cabin of your Ford F-150 in the air conditioning system by replacing the cabin air filter around every 20,000 miles. Fuel Filter Replacement Avoid any excess contaminants from building up in your Ford F-150’s engine by replacing the fuel filter around every 30,000 miles. Too much build-up from debris can lead to poor engine performance and fuel efficiency. Transmission Fluid Service Transmission fluid and filters can be contaminated and degrade over time, leading to shifting problems and possible transmission damage. Regularly servicing your transmission fluid approximately every 30,000 miles is crucial for ensuring smooth gear shifting and extending your transmission’s lifespan. Lubricate Ball Joints Ball joints are crucial for achieving smooth and accurate handling of the front tires. To minimize wear and extend their lifespan, it’s recommended to lubricate the ball joints around every 30,000 miles as part of the regular Ford F-150 maintenance plan. Ford F-150 Maintenance After 60,000 Miles: Replacement And Flushing By Mileage Clean and Repack Wheel Bearing At your Ford F-150 maintenance appointment around every 60,000 miles, have our technicians clean and repack the wheel bearings with fresh grease to help the tires keep turning without any issues. Replace Spark Plugs Spark plugs typically require replacement around the 90,000-mile mark and are crucial for igniting the engine’s air fuel mixture within its cylinders. Worn out spark plugs often lead to engine misfiring and a decline in engine performance. Cooling System Flush Flushing your vehicle's cooling system at around 100,000 miles eradicates built-up contaminants, keeping the engine healthy and cool. Over periods of regular use, coolant becomes contaminated, leading to an overheated engine and poor performance. Positive Crankcase Ventilation Valve Replacement Replacing the PCV valve at your Ford F-150 maintenance appointment around every 20,000 miles after 100,000 miles helps prevent harmful gas buildup in the truck’s engine. Replace Differential/Gear Oil It’s essential that around every 50,000 miles after the 100,000 milestone the differential and gear oils get replaced, as they can break down over time. These are vital for lubricating the gears of your truck’s drivetrain, and when not replaced, can put excessive wear on the gears. Ford F-150 Maintenance Cost: Vehicle Care Prices Following The Maintenance Schedule Overall, the total cost for maintenance of your Ford F-150 can range depending on the age of the vehicle, personal driving habits, how often you take the truck off-road, specific model years and trim, and the cost at our service center during your Ford F-150 maintenance appointment. Taking Care Of Your Ford F-150: Vehicle Maintenance Care For Your Truck By diligently sticking to a routine schedule of maintenance for your Ford F-150, you not only prevent small issues from developing into major concerns, but also save significant time and money while alleviating stress over the long term. At Blake Ford, our team of expert technicians is committed to your satisfaction, providing you with the best advice and exceptional service to maintain your Ford F-150 and keep it in prime condition. Book your next maintenance visit online today! SCHEDULE SERVICE

Keep It Moving With Regular Maintenance Your Ford Explorer plays a huge role in your day-to-day life, helping you to navigate between trips to the grocery store, along road trips, and taking the kids to school. To ensure that your Ford Explorer delivers the performance, reliability, and safety that this incredible SUV is known for, it's important to regularly make your Ford Explorer’s maintenance appointments on time. At Blake Ford, we are dedicated to helping you get the most out of your vehicle, and our team of certified Ford technicians is here to help support you with expert care tailored to your vehicle's unique needs. Visit us today in Franklin, VA! Ford Explorer Maintenance Schedule Routine Maintenance Oil and Filter Change: It’s vital that you regularly have the engine oil and oil filter of your vehicle changed to maintain engine health, which should be addressed around every 5,000 miles at your Ford Explorer’s maintenance appointment. Adding fresh oil to your vehicle lubricates the engine components, reducing wear and tear. Tire Rotation and Inspection: Rotating your tires promotes even tread wear, extending their lifespan, and also helps the technician to identify issues such as uneven wear or damage like holes and nails. This service should be performed ideally at the same time as your oil and filter change as part of a regular vehicle tune-up. Brake Inspection: Around the same time as getting your oil and filter changed, alongside tire rotation and inspection, have the technician check the brake system of your vehicle, including pads, rotors, and fluid levels. Ford Explorer Maintenance At and Before 30,000 Miles Multi-Point Inspection: Around every 15,000 miles, your technician should perform a comprehensive check of the exhaust system, steering system, brakes, and cooling system to ensure overall vehicle longevity, performance, and safety. Engine Air Filter Replacement: Having your automotive technician install a new air filter to your engine around every 20,000 miles enhances the overall fuel efficiency and engine performance of your Ford Explorer, only allowing clean air to enter the engine. Cabin Air Filter Replacement: Additionally, replacing the cabin air filter at the same Ford Explorer maintenance appointment as the engine filter ensures that only clean, fresh air circulates inside your vehicle, keeping up pollutants, toxins, and allergens. Transmission Fluid Check: Your Ford Explorer’s transmission requires clean, fresh fluid that's free from contaminants to lubricate its components. Regularly checking transmission fluid levels around every 30,000 miles helps with smooth gear shifting and prolongs the transmission’s lifespan. Lubricate Ball Joints: To prevent rough steering, you must have the ball joints of your vehicle lubricated in order to maintain smooth steering and suspension performance around every 30,000 miles at your Ford Explorer’s maintenance appointment. Ford Explorer Maintenance After 60,000 Miles Clean and Repack Wheel Bearing: To prevent excess wear and tear on the vehicle, cleaning and repacking wheel bearings must be completed to ensure smooth wheel rotation and properly controlled handling of your Ford Explorer. Have your technician perform this service around every 60,000 miles at your Ford Explorer’s maintenance appointment. Replace Spark Plugs: Spark plugs operate as the source of power that ignites the air-fuel mixture in the engine, allowing it to start properly. Change out the spark plugs around every 90,000 miles to ensure efficient combustion and maintain the engine's performance. Coolant System Flush: Flushing your Ford Explorer's coolant system helps prevent engine overheating by preventing buildup, maintaining optimal engine temperature, and extending its longevity. This service should be performed at your Ford Explorer’s maintenance appointment around every 100,000 miles. Fuel Filter Replacement: At the same appointment, have your technician replace your vehicle's fuel filter. A clean fuel filter ensures the fuel system operates efficiently, providing the engine with clean fuel for optimal performance. Positive Crankcase Ventilation Valve Replacement: During the 100,000-mile appointment, your technician should also replace the PCV valve to reduce emissions from your vehicle by removing harmful gases from the engine. Transfer Case Fluid Replacement: If you have a four-wheel-drive Ford Explorer model, replacing the transfer case fluid around every 60,000 miles ensures that the drivetrain operates smoothly and reliably so you can safely take your vehicle off-road or in inclement weather conditions. Serpentine/Drive Belt Replacement: Also, around 100,000 miles, replace the serpentine belt to prevent potential breakdowns so that your vehicle's engine components can run smoothly and efficiently. Differential/Gear Oil Replacement: Finally, at the 100,000-mile Ford Explorer maintenance appointment, have your technician change the differential oil to ensure that your vehicle maintains smooth operation of gears and axles for the remainder of its lifespan. Ford Explorer Hybrid Maintenance Drivers of the Ford Explorer Hybrid model will find that their vehicle does not require quite as much maintenance as the regular gas model due to its hybrid powertrain, which contributes to less wear and tear on certain aspects of the powertrain. For the most part, drivers should still follow the routine Ford Explorer maintenance list to maintain the health and longevity of their vehicles. The only exception is having the high-voltage battery, battery cooling system, and regenerative braking system inspected and replaced as needed. Ford Explorer Maintenance Costs Maintaining your Ford Explorer involves various costs, which can vary based on factors such as location, service provider, and vehicle condition. Maintenance costs will depend on model year and usage of the vehicle. It’s Time For Your Next Appointment The Ford Explorer is an incredible vehicle designed to be long lasting and high performing while delivering on exceptional safety and reliability. Following our recommended maintenance schedule and making routine Ford Explorer maintenance appointments, you can avoid costly repairs and enjoy consistent peace of mind on the road. At Blake Ford, we believe that proactive maintenance is the key to keeping your vehicle healthy, and our skilled technicians are passionate about providing top-tier service for our customers. Booking your next appointment online is as easy as 1-2-3, and you can schedule your next service appointment through the convenient tool on our website. Visit us today in Franklin, VA! SCHEDULE SERVICE

Maintaining Your Ford Escape Renowned for its durability and reliable engineering, the Ford Escape stands up to every adventure and daily drive with unwavering performance. Staying on top of your Ford Escape’s maintenance is key to keeping your beloved SUV running for years to come. At Blake Ford, our team of Ford technicians is dedicated to offering you the highest level of certified quality service and everything you need to know to help keep your Ford Escape in top shape. Schedule your next service appointment online today! Ford Escape Maintenance Schedule Routine Maintenance Oil Change and Filter Replacement: The key to a long-lasting vehicle is regular oil changes, as oil minimizes wear by reducing friction and cooling the engine. To maintain a clean and lubricated engine, we advise that you have the oil and filter changed by a professional every 5,000 miles. Tire Rotation: To prolong the lifespan of your tires while promoting even wear, tire rotation should be performed every 5,000 miles during your Ford Escape maintenance appointment. This also allows the technician to check for and remove any debris, such as nails or glass, that might lead to a flat tire later. Brake, Belt, and Hose Inspection: To avoid major problems in the future, regular checks on your brakes, belts, and hoses at every appointment are essential. Checking the braking system ensures your safety on the road, while the belts power several engine parts and the hoses carry vital fluids throughout your vehicle. Inspection around every 5,000 miles prevents any unexpected problems like breakdowns. Mileage-Based Maintenance At And Before 30,000 Miles Change Engine Filter: This filter is critical in preventing dirt and debris buildup in the engine and should be changed around every 10,000 miles at your Ford Escape maintenance appointment, beginning when you hit the 20,000-mile mark for optional fuel economy and engine efficiency. Change Cabin Air Filter: To ensure the air inside your vehicle remains fresh and devoid of dust, pollen, and pollutants, replace the cabin air filter at the same intervals as the engine air filter, starting at around 20,000 miles. This change promotes a healthier driving environment for you and your passengers by minimizing the presence of allergens and toxins. Transmission Fluid Change: The transmission fluid plays a vital role in cooling and lubricating the transmission components to facilitate seamless gear changes and should be serviced around every 30,000 miles at your Ford Escape’s maintenance appointment. Lubrication of Ball Joints: Regularly lubricating the ball joints to ensure smooth steering extends the life of the joint, keeping your vehicle’s suspension system running smoothly. This service should ideally be performed around every 30,000 miles. Fuel Filter Replacement: By filtering out contaminants before they reach your engine, the fuel filter plays a key role in maintaining your engine’s performance and fuel efficiency. Replacing the fuel filter around every 30,000 miles helps sustain these performance levels. Transfer Case Fluid Change: Transfer case fluid should be changed between 30-60,000 miles to maintain optimal performance and prevent wear on the gears, bearings, and transfer case within the all-wheel and four-wheel drive systems. This mileage will depend on your usage of the car, for example if you regularly tow heavy loads it will need to be changed more often. On two-wheel drive systems, the transfer case fluid does not need to be changed nearly as often. Vehicle Maintenance After 90,000 Miles Changing Spark Plugs: Spark plugs are important for properly starting the engine, as they ignite the mixture of air and fuel within the engine’s cylinders. When they’re worn out or dirty, the engine is more likely to misfire, decrease fuel economy, and diminish performance. Have them changed around every 90,000 miles at your Ford Escape maintenance appointment; however, they should be replaced whenever the technician otherwise finds it necessary. Cooling System Flush: The cooling system circulates coolant throughout the engine and radiator, keeping the engine from overheating. Performing a flush at around 100,000 miles helps prevent buildup while removing old coolant to keep the engine cool and fully functional. Replace Differential/Gear Oil: Differential and gear oil lubricates the gears and bearings in your vehicle's differential and transmission, and the oil can break down or become contaminated. Replacing this oil at around 100,000 miles during your Ford Escape’s maintenance appointment helps maintain proper lubrication and extends the life of these critical components. Positive Crankcase Ventilation Replacement: This system is designed to eliminate and recycle harmful gases from the engine crankcase back into the engine and should be replaced around 100,000 miles. When the positive crankcase ventilation valve fails, it can increase emissions and cause deposits in the engine. Serpentine/Drive Belts Replacement: These belts are integral to the functioning and well-being of various vehicle components like the alternator, power steering pump, and air conditioning compressor. To avoid belt failure and ensure smooth operation of engine accessories, replace them around 100,000 miles. Ford Escape Hybrid Maintenance Ford Escape Hybrids receive different and often less frequent maintenance than the conventional gas model due to the hybrid power trail. Components specific to the hybrid system, like the high-voltage battery and electric motor, don’t require as frequent maintenance, but the regenerative braking system and battery’s cooling system should be evaluated during every routine maintenance appointment by professional technicians. Ford Escape Maintenance Costs The overall expense of your Ford Escape maintenance appointments will vary depending on your local service center and your usage of the vehicle. Time For Your Maintenance Check Keeping up to date with regular maintenance in a timely manner while also consulting your vehicle’s operating manual can guarantee that your vehicle continues to perform to premium standards while ensuring safety and comfort for you and your passengers. At Aschenbach Ford, we’re committed to providing quality service during your Ford Escape maintenance appointment, and our experienced mechanics are here to help ensure your vehicle operates flawlessly. Use our online scheduling tool to book your service appointment today! SCHEDULE SERVICE

The Top Guide to Protecting Your Vehicle Preventative car maintenance involves regularly servicing your vehicle to keep it running smoothly and to prevent potential issues before they become costly repairs. This proactive approach of knowing how many miles for car maintenance is crucial for maximizing the lifespan of your car. In this blog by Blake Ford, we will discuss exactly how to keep your vehicle safe and on the road for as long as possible. Importance of Regular Maintenance for Vehicle Longevity Regular, mileage-based maintenance is essential to ensure a car’s longevity and prevent costly repairs. Cars endure wear and tear with every mile driven, making scheduled maintenance vital to their performance and safety. Car Maintenance Schedule By Mileage Car manufacturers often recommend preventative car maintenance schedules based on mileage milestones, typically known as the 30-60-90 schedule. This means that every 30,000, 60,000, and 90,000 miles, certain aspects of your vehicle need to be inspected or replaced. These intervals ensure that essential components are inspected and serviced at appropriate times. Factors to Consider When Creating a Personalized Schedule When developing a personalized preventative car maintenance schedule, consult your owner’s manual or a team member at Blake Ford for specific recommendations. Additionally, consider your driving habits and the environment in which you drive, and age of your vehicle, as these factors can influence how frequently certain maintenance tasks need to be performed. Essential Car Maintenance Tasks Oil Changes and Fluid Checks: Regular oil changes are one of the most important parts of preventative car maintenance. They are typically recommended every 3,000 to 10,000 miles, depending on your vehicle and the type of oil used. Proper oil maintenance prevents engine damage, ensures optimal performance, and can decrease the chance of paying for costly repairs down the road. Tire Maintenance and Rotation: Tire rotations should occur every 5,000 to 8,000 miles to promote even tread wear and extend tire life. This simple task can enhance fuel efficiency, maintain vehicle stability, and keep you and your vehicle safe. Brake Pad Replacement and Other Essentials: Brake pads should be inspected regularly and replaced every 10,000 to 20,000 miles, depending on driving conditions. This is one of the most important preventative car maintenance tasks because worn brake pads can be very dangerous, compromising your safety and increasing stopping distances. Car Maintenance Schedule By Mileage: Advanced Maintenance Tasks Belts, Hoses, and Tire Replacements: Belts and hoses are made of rubber, which is known to  deteriorate over time. They should be checked periodically to avoid unexpected failures, which can happen very quickly if there is a problem with your hose. Tires, too, have a lifespan and should be replaced approximately every six years or 60,000 miles, regardless of tread depth. Spark Plug Replacement and Other Advanced Tasks: Spark plugs typically last around 100,000 miles but should be replaced as recommended by your vehicle manufacturer to maintain engine efficiency. If you opt for a cheaper spark plug made of copper, it is recommended to replace those every 30,000 miles. Maintenance Reminders and Tips Your owner’s manual is a valuable resource for understanding your vehicle’s specific preventative car maintenance needs and recommended car maintenance by mileage. Manufacturers often provide detailed guidelines to optimize vehicle performance and longevity. If you have additional questions about maintenance, the knowledgeable staff members in our service department will be happy to assist you. Protection from Day One: Starting a Maintenance Routine Early Establishing a preventative car maintenance routine early in your vehicle’s life is crucial. Regular upkeep from the beginning helps identify potential issues before they escalate, ensuring your car remains safe and reliable for a longer period of time. The Importance of Preventative Maintenance for Vehicle Protection Regular maintenance is the cornerstone of vehicle longevity, regardless of mileage or age. By addressing maintenance needs promptly, you can prevent major repairs and sustain optimal performance. Maintaining your vehicle’s health requires a combination of good driving habits, quality fuel, and regular maintenance. By adhering to recommended schedules and staying proactive, you can extend the life of your vehicle and enjoy worry-free driving. Schedule Service Today No matter where your vehicle is in the 30-60-90 schedule, our automotive technicians are prepared to get your vehicle back on the road running smoothly. Schedule service with Blake Ford today to get started! SCHEDULE SERVICE

Addressing Ford Car Problems: Taking Care of Your Vehicle With a long history of innovation and a reputation for reliability, Ford vehicles are designed to offer unparalleled performance and longevity. However, like all vehicles, Ford vehicles are not infallible and can experience issues that require attention and maintenance. As a proud member of the Ford family, Blake Ford is committed to ensuring that every Ford owner enjoys the best possible driving experience. By understanding the common issues that Ford vehicles may experience, you can take proactive steps to maintain your vehicle and avoid unexpected repair bills. Our automotive experts are dedicated to helping you maintain your vehicle’s health and performance by providing everything you need to know about the most common Ford problems so that you can stay informed with every vehicle purchase. Visit us today in Franklin, VA! What Are Some Of The Most Common Issues Ford Repairs? Transmission Troubles Transmission issues are among the most common Ford repairs, particularly in models like the Ford Focus and the Ford F-150. Common symptoms of transmission problems include rough shifting, delayed or rough shifting, jerking while driving, hesitation, and complete transmission failure. These issues can often be traced back to the PowerShift transmission found in older models, as well as problems such as fluid leaks, seal issues, or general wear and tear. These issues can also sometimes be traced back to low fluid levels or faulty solenoids. Transmission roll pins have been another source of Ford car problems, leading to recalls and poor vehicle performance. Despite these challenges, Ford is at the forefront of automotive innovation and quality assurance. If you experience any transmission issues, our expert technicians at Blake Ford are equipped to handle them with precision and care, ensuring your safety and vehicle performance. Engine Issues Ford vehicles sometimes falter on engine issues. Ford car problems such as engine misfires, spark plug problems, faulty engine block heaters, and oil leaks are not uncommon. Models like the Ford Escape and Ford Edge, which feature the EcoBoost® engine, have reported these issues more frequently. Symptoms to watch out for include the check engine light coming on, decreased fuel efficiency, unusual engine noises, or overheating. Spark plug issues, often due to disconnection from the engine, have been known to cause problems. If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s crucial to visit our service center at Blake Ford immediately. Our master technicians can diagnose and fix these problems, getting you back on the road quickly and safely. Electrical System Failures Electrical problems in Ford vehicles can be particularly frustrating due to their intermittent nature. Common electrical Ford car problems include dead batteries,malfunctioning sensors, malfunctioning power windows, faulty alternators, and wiring issues. Some Ford owners have reported undetected low batteries that have resulted in malfunctioning lights and signals. Regularly checking your battery and alternator can help prevent these issues, and if you’re experiencing any electrical problems, bring your vehicle to our service center here at Blake Ford as soon as possible. Our professional service team is skilled in diagnosing and repairing electrical issues, ensuring your vehicle remains safe and reliable. Brake Problems Brake issues are not only inconvenient Ford car problems but can become safety hazards if not promptly addressed. Common complaints among Ford owners include rupturing fluid leaks, brake hoses, brakes engaging while driving, and unexpected parking brake releases. Worn-out brake pads are another frequent issue, but this is often due to wear and tear that has not been properly addressed. Some of these problems have led to company-issued recalls, underscoring the importance of regular brake maintenance, and all future recalls should be addressed immediately. At Blake Ford, our automotive repair experts can help you address brake issues with high-quality, professional care to keep you safe on the road. Air Conditioning Malfunctions While it doesn’t directly cause harm to the car’s performance, a malfunctioning air conditioning system can create a miserable driving experience in extremely hot or cold weather. Additionally, Ford car problems with the exhaust system, like holes in the exhaust or muffler, can also negatively affect the driving experience. If you encounter air conditioning problems, visit our service center at Blake Ford. Our technicians will ensure your air conditioning system is working correctly, providing a comfortable cabin temperature no matter the weather. Caring For Your Car Regular maintenance, repairs done on-time, and the use of Ford parts are key to ensuring the longevity and performance of your vehicle. While Ford is reputable for engineering quality vehicles built to last, like all car brands, sometimes Ford car problems can slip through the cracks. At Blake Ford, we’re dedicated to providing exceptional service to keep your Ford vehicle running smoothly. We understand the importance of maintaining your vehicle’s overall vitality in top condition and are committed to delivering high-quality, professional service. If you experience any issues with your Ford, don’t hesitate to contact our service department in Franklin, VA, to schedule an appointment! SCHEDULE SERVICE