Top 5 Ford Maintenance Tips Every Owner Can Use

Keeping up to date with servicing your Ford goes a long way towards avoiding costly repairs, dangerous breakdowns, and other unpleasant surprises. These five Ford maintenance tips will help you ensure that your car is always in top condition and ready for even the longest journey.
1. Engine Oil Change
Engine oil lubricates your car’s engine, ensuring that it runs smoothly and preventing metal parts from grinding against each other. It’s important to change the oil at regular intervals since it becomes less effective over time. Dirt and other foreign matter build up in the oil, creating a risk of engine damage.
Most modern Ford models are outfitted with a dedicated system to let you know when it’s time to change the oil or the oil filter. In any case, a good rule of thumb is to change the oil every 6,000 miles or so. If your Ford uses synthetic motor oil, this interval can be extended to 15,000 miles.
2. Tire Rotation
By periodically changing the position of your Ford’s tires, you’ll make them last longer. Tire rotation ensures even tread wear, improves handling, and gives your mechanic an opportunity to examine the tires for damage.
Since it’s generally recommended to rotate the tires every 6,000 to 8,000 miles, it’s a good idea to simply take care of it with every oil change.

3. Check Fluid Levels and Condition
It’s good practice to regularly take a look under the hood of your Ford and check the levels of the transmission, power steering, and brake fluids, as well as engine coolant. This way, you’ll spot signs of a potential leak straight away and avoid any damage to the car.
These fluids need to be changed periodically – exactly how often will depend on a range of factors, so it’s easiest to simply ask your mechanic to check their condition with every oil change.
4. Air Filter Replacement
Your car’s air filter prevents dust and other contaminants from getting into the engine. Regularly fitting a new, genuine air filter from Ford will extend your engine’s life and improve its performance.
According to an official recommendation from Ford Motor Company, you should replace the filter every 15,000 to 30,000 miles. If you often drive on dusty dirt roads or notice a dip in engine performance, it may be worth getting a replacement more often.
5. Hand Wash and Wax
Last but not least, let’s focus on the exterior of your Ford. Hand washing and waxing your car is more than just a cosmetic treatment: it also helps to protect the paint from damage and the body from rust.
For most cars, waxing should be done at least three times a year, though you may want to do it more often if your car is usually parked outside rather than in a garage. Before applying wax, it’s important to thoroughly wash the car. Waxing a dirty car will cause scratches on the surface of the paint, as well as locking in contaminants.
What’s next on your Ford maintenance schedule? Contact Sutton Ford today to book your service appointment and get your car ready for adventure!
Source: blog