While many newer mechanisms inside Ford vehicles are designed for comfort and convenience, some are absolutely necessary in order to drive on the streets legally. Airbags are arguably one of the most important elements inside any model, and they are installed to provide cushioning in the event of an accident.Â
It wasn’t until 1998 that airbags were made mandatory in Canada and the United States. Now, automobiles are produced with many different styles of airbags including multistage front, side-mounted, curtain, knee blockers, and more.Â
They work when an impact occurs which triggers the balloons to deploy and rapidly inflate. Their purpose is to reduce the impact on the human body and minimize the riders’ chances of coming into contact with hard surfaces inside the cabin.Â
Cars, trucks, vans, and SUVs also now come with airbag deactivation. This is a sensor that can detect if a passenger is sitting in the front seat. If no prescience is detected - meaning significant weight is not placed on the seat - the airbags on that side will become inactive. They will not deploy in the event of a crash.Â
While the term “air filter†may seem self-explanatory, it serves as an umbrella phrase in the auto industry. There are several different types including one for the cabin and another for the engine. Their purpose is to eliminate particles to prevent pollutants from getting inside the cockpit or the motor bay.
The main air filter is for the engine. Its job is to feed clean into the mechanism. However, if you hear the term “air filtrationâ€, it is typically referring to the cabin version which is responsible for removing dust, pollen, bacteria, and even mould from the vehicle's ventilation system.
Next, the air pump filter prevents contaminants from entering the air supply for the injection system. If any of these components are not functioning properly, the restriction indicator will identify the issue and alert you. You will then need to visit a mechanic to fix the problem.
Another term you may see is air pollution score. This is a rating given by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to every new model on the road. Ranking from zero to ten, the digit reflects the number of air pollutants that are generated while the vehicle is in operation.
Every modern vehicle comes standard with an air conditioning system. This intricate mechanism is made up of many different components that all work in unison to do one job - provide cold air inside the cabin.
A/C units rely on a liquid known as refrigerant to make warm air cooler. Designed to transform the liquid into a gas, this process absorbs humidity and heat which leave only cool, dry air. The system is also responsible for controlling the pressure of the air.
While the A/C is the cooling and dehumidification element, it also requires a special filter. Created to eliminate particles and pollutants, it stops external contaminants from entering the car.
Next, the compressor serves as the power behind the unit. It the pressure into two sections. One is for low, and the other is for high. Mounted to the front of the automobile’s engine, it is moved by a serpentine belt.
The condenser is another element you should know about. It helps reduce the temperature of the refrigerant without dropping the air pressure. Positioned at the front behind the grille, it works like a radiator and uses a fan to force air movement.
If you have ever needed maintenance or repairs done to your Ford vehicle, then you have probably been asked by a mechanic if you prefer OEM or aftermarket accessories. If this question is confusing, then keep reading to find out the difference between the two terms.
Aftermarket accessories are pieces of equipment that are not included in the vehicle when it leaves the factory. Typically purchased as auto body shops or used car dealerships, these third-arty elements have been reverse engineered from the original piece. They are typically cheaper than OEM parts; however, they do not last as long. They also do not always fit properly since they are not crafted using factory specifications. This can lead to malfunctions and even significant damage to the vehicle down the road.
OEM stands for “Original Equipment Manufacturerâ€. This means that these pieces were made by the brand’s factory. They are precise replicas of the parts that need repair. When you replace a broken or worn down element with an OEM part, it will be as if it was never damaged or changed. It is as close to new as you can get.
If you are just getting started learning about muscle cars and racing, then you may have heard the term “aerodynamic drag†before. Simply put, this is the force that is exerted by air moving in the opposite direction of the vehicle. In other words, it is what pulls the automobile back instead of propelling it forward.
With any type of sports vehicle, this is detrimental to its performance. Not only does it slow the car down, but it can also significantly lower the overall fuel economy. Luckily, the iconic Ford Mustang can be fitted with various exterior accessories to reduce its effect.
First, the raised blade style rear decklid spoiler is the most popular option. This particular piece is an angular sweep design that accentuates the lines of the Mustang. Crafted from lightweight, rigid acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), it can be painted to match your model.
Another option is a bumper extension also sometimes called a diffuser. This is meant to replace the factory-installed lower rear fascia, and it adds a more aggressive look to the car. Valance panels can also be added for improved aerodynamics.
The suspension system on any vehicle is designed to increase friction between the tires and the road while absorbing the energy generated for a smoother ride. Connected to the wheels, it helps make the experience inside the cabin more comfortable by insulating the cockpit from impacts.
There are two main components to a suspension mechanism - springs and shocks. The springs control the overall height and load, and the shocks dampen any kinetic energy as the tires rotate over the pavement.
More often than not, the suspension system also includes an anti-sway bar. This allows movement shifts between the wheels and the steering column. In other words, it stabilizes the car and keeps it on the correct path.
Most models have two different suspension systems - one in the front and another in the back. These can be either independent (operating separately from the front/rear axle) or dependent (bound by the axle motion).
Aside from making the experience inside the vehicle more enjoyable, the job of any suspension unit is to prolong the life expectancy of other elements. It cuts down on wear and tear that is generally taken on by rough roads or potholes.
No matter what type of Ford vehicle you own, it will come with at least two pedals. Models with manual transmissions will have an added clutch that serves as a third, but automatics only include the accelerator and brake units.
Higher trim levels may also have upgraded pedals that can be re-positioned to suit your height and comfort level. These are known as power-adjustable pedals. They can be moved toward or away from you. The control is usually located in the central dash area. It is generally a button that you press up or down to rearrange the components beneath your feet.
These also come with sensors known as APS. If this aspect is faulty, it can cause the malfunction indicator light (MIL) to come on. Signs to look for to determine if the sensor is going bad include slow acceleration and having trouble picking up speed. It may come as a surprise, but these are fairly easy to replace. You can do it yourself or bring your vehicle to a professional mechanic for faster service.
Do you need to order a new Accelerator Pedal Sensor for your car, truck, SUV, or van? Get in touch with the agents at Ford Parts BC to find the right piece!
One of the biggest fears when driving on a remote highway at night is hitting deer as it attempts to cross the road. While some people may think there is nothing to be done about this type of accident, adaptive headlights can help a lot.
Instead of projecting a beam in one direction only, this style of lamp will turn as your maneuver the steering wheel. Not only does this illuminate the path through bends and corners, but it can also grant visibility on obstacles that may have been otherwise in the dark.
Sometimes referred to as matrix headlights, they almost exclusively come with LED bulbs. Small mirrors are also found inside the housing units that allow the beam to be manipulated in a multitude of ways.
Some models may also include adaptive high beams. These bright lights will toggle down to low when another car approaches. Thanks to sensors that are used to detect oncoming traffic, you don’t have to worry about blinding another traveller.
Do you need new lighting elements for your Ford vehicle? Get in touch with the team of agents at Ford Parts BC to find the right equipment! You can order online in a matter of minutes.
One of the most highly sought after safety features on newer vehicles is known as Adaptive Cruise Control. Usually reserved for top-tier trim levels, this driving aid is designed for security, convenience, and to reduce fatigue.
Not only does it allow you to set a speed limit, but also enables you to choose a following distance. The mechanism will maintain that distance even if it means lowering the rate of travel. Furthermore, it uses a series of cameras and sensors to detect the flow of traffic up ahead. If the pace begins to slow, so will your Ford.
The great thing about this component is that you no longer have to stress out about accelerating and braking during heavy rush hour congestion. You can sit back and let the function work its magic without any extra input from you.
When the way clears up, the vehicle will return to its originally set speed. Also, with Ford models, Lane Centering has been added into the mix. This monitors the lines on the road to ensure that you do not deviate from the designated path. If you veer off to the side, it can correct your course.
Need to upgrade the technology on your transport? Contact Ford Parts BC to find the right pieces!
Over recent years, safety systems inside vehicles have become much more advanced. One of the most highly sought after driving aids these days is the Active Pedestrian Protection System.
In short, this is an electronic mechanism that is designed to alert drivers to the presence of people in the street up ahead.
With Ford vehicles, this function is paired with a forward collision warning system. Using a series of sensors and front-mounted cameras, it will monitor the road and let you know if an obstacle is in your direct path. It works for pedestrians too.
If no evasive action is taken by you to avoid an accident, the component can take control of the emergency brakes. This will bring the automobile to a complete stop before an impact is made. The following terms can be used interchangeably depending on the model:
Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking
Post-Collision Braking
Forward Sensing System
All of the elements were created to do essentially the same job - which is to prevent head-on incidents. Perfect for urban areas, it keeps you safe as well as others.
Need to add better safety enhancements to your Ford vehicle? Get in touch with the agents at Ford Parts BC to see what’s in stock!