Lower Mainland drivers can improve their fuel economy regardless of the type of vehicle they use. In addition to getting regular maintenance at the Skaha Ford Service Centre, you can take steps on your own to decrease gas use.Â
1. Check your tire pressure once per month to ensure proper inflation. The engine will have to work harder if the wheels are flatter than they should be.
2. Change the oil and the engine air filter on time. If you do this at a service centre, the mechanic can also check battery function, spark plugs, and other lubricants.Â
3. Do not carry loads unnecessarily. Extra weight can decrease efficiency, so storing cargo in a garage or carport can help improve fuel economy.
4. Do not idle for more than a minute. Running the engine, even without moving, can use up to four litres of gas per hour.Â
If you would like to ensure that all your vehicle's components are operating at peak efficiency, contact our service centre today to schedule an inspection.
Your car battery is a crucial component of your vehicle. Though the average unit lasts between two and five years, you can extend the life and ensure proper performance by taking a few simple steps.
Don't Let Your Car Sit for Too Long
The battery on a vehicle charges while you drive. If your car sits idle, the unit will eventually drain and require a jump start. Therefore, if you have multiple autos, be sure to alternate them to avoid this issue.Â
Keep your Battery Connections Tight
Loose terminals make it easier for the battery to vibrate, which can cause a short circuit and damage the unit. Ensure proper mounting and check the connections after traveling off-road or on a bumpy surface.Â
Test your Battery Regularly
You can invest in a car battery tester to assess the output voltage. Alternatively, when you come to a service centre for maintenance, you can ask your technician to perform an assessment. They can tell you if it is time for a replacement.Â
If you suspect that you have battery issues, contact our BC, Canada service centre to schedule an appointment today.
Your car’s suspension system ensures reliable control, responsive steering, and traction. It also keeps the ride smooth on bumpy roads.Â
If the ride doesn't seem right, it may be because of one of the following suspension issues. These problems generally require a trip to a service centre for assessment and repair.Â
Bad shocks/struts
Shocks and struts smooth out bumps and ensure your tires always contact the road. A fluid leak or general wear and tear can cause them to break down.
Pool wheel alignment
Poor wheel alignment can damage your suspension system and your tires. You will notice the vehicle pulling to one side if this is an issue.Â
Damaged springs and ball joints
Springs are responsible for holding your vehicle up and absorbing vibrations. Ball joints likewise limit shock and help with steering. If you notice creaking sounds when turning, damage to this component could be the cause.
Ford has new vehicles that offer excellent suspension systems. The 2021 Explorer, currently available with 1.99% APR financing for qualified buyers, and F-150 (0.99% APR over 72 months) are examples of autos with robust and reliable drivetrains.Â
To learn more about these deals or to check the suspension on your current auto, contact our BC, Canada dealership and service centre today.
The first vehicle with keyless entry hit the market in 1980, but the system has experienced a surge in popularity in recent years. If your auto has this option, you get to enjoy several important advantages.
Improved Accessibility
Imagine trying to reach for your key when your hands are full of groceries or having to rummage for it in your pocket or purse in a parking lot late at night. With a proximity sensor, all you have to do is touch the handle or door, and the vehicle unlocks.Â
Automatic Locking
Have you ever walked away from your car, only to stop and turn back because you weren’t sure you locked it? With remote keyless entry, your vehicle’s doors will automatically secure as soon as you’re out of the predefined range.
Personalised SettingsÂ
Certain kinds of keyless cars let you set preferences for some things, such as which channel should come on on the radio and how far back your seat should be.
If you want to add a keyless system to your vehicle, contact our service centre in BC, Canada.
Finding the right tires for your car is necessary for optimal performance. While there are many factors to consider when thinking about the details, the first step is always to choose the type of tread you need. Here are the three main options you will find at a service centre.Â
All-Season Tires
This is the most popular product because it can perform in regular weather. That said, these wheels won’t match winter tires during harsh conditions, and they won't grip pavement as well as specialized summer rubber.
Summer Tires
Summer tires are best suited for dry pavement because they offer exceptional grip. They do well at high speeds and in hot temperatures, but they are not useful if it drops below 4 degrees Celsius.
Winter Tires
Winter tires excel in especially cold conditions and on snowy and icy roads. If you go with this option, you must have an extra set of all-season or summer units for when the weather clears up.
Contact our BC, Canada service centre to find the best tires for your vehicle.Â
All of your vehicle’s wheels need to be in a straight line. This statement sounds obvious, but they can point in slightly different directions after a lot of use or if the suspension system cannot absorb the regular bumps and cracks of the road.Â
When wheels are poorly aligned, your vehicle won’t handle precisely. You will notice it pulling in one direction or the other as you are moving forward. The strain could be more pronounced during turning.Â
The misaligned wheels will also cause uneven wear on your tires, which can impact your safety and increase maintenance costs in the long run. In fact, one of the telltale signs that your vehicle might need this type of service is irregular tread depth.Â
If you notice any of these signs, you should contact our service centre for a wheel alignment. You can also make this form of maintenance a regular part of your scheduled tune-ups. Most technicians recommend doing it once per year.
A loose hose or cracked belt can cause a major issue for your vehicle, but these components often get overlooked. Here are some of the most essential ones to check during routine maintenance.Â
Timing Belt
The timing belt is made of high-quality rubber and connects the crankshaft to the camshaft. If it breaks, your engine will immediately stop working. Be sure to inspect this component often for cracks and other signs of wear.Â
Serpentine Belts
These belts transmit energy from the engine to the cooling fan, power steering pump, air conditioning compressor, and other essential elements. They are made of high-quality rubber, but they can wear out after a while, so be sure to have yours checked by a service centre professional every 60,000 kilometres.
Hoses
Hoses connect to different components, such as the heater, radiator, fuel lines, power steering, and brakes. These are typically made of rubber and should be checked by a mechanic every 60,000 kilometres for signs of wear or leaks, which could lead to a complete system failure.
To schedule an appointment to get all these vital components inspected, contact our service centre today.
If you purchase a quality new or used vehicle, you will have minimal maintenance and repair needs. However, regularly scheduled tune-ups at a service centre can help you avoid issues and keep your car performing at its best.Â
Here is a list of vehicle fluids that need regular checks in between these visits to a professional.
Engine Oil
Engine oil keeps the motor components lubricated for optimal performance. You need to change the liquid as recommended by your owner's manual. However, insufficient oil can lead to damage, so you should check the level regularly between the scheduled changes.Â
Brake Fluid
This fluid makes it easier to apply a large force to your brakes without having to press too hard on the pedal. The liquid has a reservoir under the hood, and it should have a light or amber colour.Â
Transmission Fluid
Transmission fluid lubricates the different parts of the gear shifter. Some vehicles have a dipstick for checking the level, while others require the help of a mechanic. This particular liquid should be red.Â
Power Steering Fluid
This fluid lubricates the power steering components. Like the others, it has a reservoir under the hood. The liquid should be near the top of the container and pink coloured.Â
When you need professional help with your fluids, contact our BC, Canada service centre for an appointment.