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A red Ford Escape sitting before a full-length and full-height window in a dealer showroom.

Eco-Friendly Escapes: The 2024 Ford Escape

With a compact design, sporty performance, and interior luxuries, the 2024 Ford Escape is a versatile SUV that also offers exceptional fuel efficiency. Let’s explore the fuel sipping engines, power, comfort, cargo space, technology, and safety that mark the Ford Escape as a refined and fun-driving small SUV. more Powerful and Fuel-Savvy The 2024 Ford Escape offers available all-wheel drive and three different engine options, with the first being a 180-horsepower 1.5-liter that gets up to an EPA-estimated 30 MPG on highways – perfect for long-distance adventures. There's also a muscular 2.0-liter engine that churns out 250 horsepower if you need more output. However, if fuel economy is your priority, you'll love the third engine, a 2.5-liter hybrid option that produces 210 horsepower while offering up to an EPA-estimated 101 MPGe in combined city and highway mileage. Spacious and Comfortable With 65.4 cubic feet of cargo space available, a standard 60/40 split-folding rear seat, and the available Easy Access Cargo Shade, you'll be more than ready to haul cargo in this SUV if needed. The premium-wrapped steering wheel, rotary gear shift dial, dual-zone climate control, and power windows are sure to be appreciated, and the heating function for the front-row seats takes comfort to the next level. Designed for Fun Journeys Outside, the vehicle comes with a power liftgate, privacy glass extends from the second row to the liftgate, and the standard LED signature lighting helps cut through the night. Also standard, the body-color rear spoiler and dual chrome exhaust tips provide a blend of sportiness and style, while convenience is enhanced with the available rain-sensitive wipers, heated side mirrors, and roof-rack side rails. Top-Notch Tech Throughout The Escape's cabin also boasts next-level technology, including the SYNC 4 infotainment system, a standard feature that lets you connect smartphones wirelessly to it, access available SiriusXM channels, and make hands-free calls, among many other functions. There's also the standard FordPass Connect app, which combines a convenient 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot with a vehicle location feature and remote start. Even the standard full-color instrument panel behind the wheel is impressive, as it has stylish Ice Blue cluster lighting surrounding it. Advanced Safety Monitoring Also offering adaptive driver-assist features, this SUV comes with the Lane-Keeping System, Pre-Collision Assist, BLIS (Blind Spot Information System), and the Tire Pressure Monitoring System, which all make highway cruising safer. When parking, the available Active Park Assist 2.0 feature automates much of the process, while the optional rear parking sensors and standard Rear View Camera provide peace of mind while reversing. Adaptive Cruise Control, a 360-degree camera system, Traffic Sign Recognition, and Lane Centering are all available as well. Ready to see this stylish and fuel-efficient SUV up close? Come take it for a test drive at our dealership by contacting us today at Auffenberg Ford in Belleville, IL.

A silver 2024 Ford Edge sitting on a city street at night.

Exploring in Style: The 2024 Ford Edge

Few SUVs combine the sporty performance, excellent fuel efficiency, and innovative technology that the 2024 Ford Edge does, and now that it's available and ready for test drives, here's a quick introduction to some of its many impressive features. Read on to learn how the 2024 Ford Edge is your key to exploring the world in style. more Sporty and Fuel-Savvy Along with Intelligent AWD, the 2024 Ford Edge offers two responsive engines that are both turbocharged, a 2.0-liter I4 and a 2.7-liter V6.  The smaller I4 engine provides plenty of strength with its 250-horsepower output, as well as up to 28 MPG in EPA-estimated highway mileage. The V6 takes things up a notch by increasing output to 335 horses while still managing to offer up to an EPA-estimated 25 MPG, perfect for wilder adventures when more muscle is needed. A Luxurious Cabin Space The vehicle's cabin comes standard with dual-zone climate control, a convenient 60/40 split-folding rear seat to clear more space for cargo, and power windows, while cargo can be neatly stored away with the Cargo Management System, also standard. Cold weather is no match for the heated seating that's available for both rows, as well as the optional heated steering wheel, and the front-row seats also offer a ventilation option for hotter temperatures. Stylish with a Fun Design Outside, the Edge's design is graced by standard LED headlamps and taillamps, as well as available weather-combatting rain-sensing wipers, heated side mirrors, and LED fog lamps to provide even more convenience. The optional Panoramic Vista Roof can be opened quickly with the touch of a button, the available power liftgate has a hands-free option, and you have a wide array of subtle and head-turning paint color options to choose from, like Burgundy Velvet, Forged Green, and Atlas Blue. Technology for Everyone This crossover also comes packed with next-level tech features to enhance drives, including the SYNC 4A infotainment system, which comes standard and features a full-color touchscreen display, voice recognition, and plenty of entertainment options to keep everyone busy. The optional B&O audio system with its twelve speakers and standard 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot are sure to impress passengers, and in addition to multiple USB ports and power outlets that come standard, there's also an available wireless charging pad. Advanced Safety Systems Drives are also made more relaxing, thanks to the many standard driver-assist features that can provide peace of mind, like the Blind Spot Information System (BLIS), the Lane-Keeping System, and Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking, which can all help prevent accidents before they happen. Adding to this convenience are plenty of available features, including Adaptive Cruise Control, Enhanced Active Park Assist, and a front-facing off-road camera with 180-degree visuals. Ready to see all of the 2024 Edge's other features? Contact us today at Auffenberg Ford Belleville in Belleville, IL to schedule a test drive with our friendly staff.

A red 2024 Ford Explorer towing a camping trailer down the highway backed by the ocean.

Versatility Meets Innovation: The 2024 Ford Explorer

This highly capable sport utility vehicle offers the power to carry heavy loads and modern technology to make every ride comfortable and engaging. Explore the exciting features of the 2024 Ford Explorer and discover versatility and innovation like you've never experienced in an SUV. more Exceptional Performance The 2024 Ford Explorer mid-size SUV has a sleek and distinguished design exuding class and grace. But under the hood, the Explorer sports a powerful 2.3-liter turbocharged EcoBoost I-4 engine generating a robust 300 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. With a towing capacity of 5,300 pounds, the Ford Explorer has the muscle to meet your needs, whether for work or play. Equipped with a standard 10-speed automatic transmission, the Ford Explorer is nimble and efficient throughout the power band, coming through with power and torque when needed and delivering a luxuriously smooth ride for those quieter moments. Side-wind stabilization technology helps keep your Explorer steady in gusty winds and to adapt to unpredictable road conditions, the Terrain Management System offers six driving modes: Normal Eco Sport Trail Slippery Tow/Haul Outstanding Utility With room to comfortably seat seven, the Ford Explorer is adaptable to the everyday challenges of the modern lifestyle. The spacious cargo area offers 18.2 cubic feet of space for groceries, luggage, and gear behind the back row. With the rear seats folded down, the Explorer's expansive cabin can expand to 87.8 cubic feet of cargo volume for large loads and bulky items. Integrated cargo hooks help keep your belongings safe and secure during transport. The Explorer's interior is easily configurable to suit your passenger and cargo needs. The second-row seats feature a 35/30/35 split, while the third row is split 50/50 and both rows offer fold-flat capability. To make loading and unloading easier, a power liftgate is standard equipment on all Explorer trims. Tech-Forward Cabin Inside its modern cabin, the Ford Explorer features the latest technology to keep you and your passengers engaged while on the road. The Explorer's SYNC 3 Technology platform offers smartphone connectivity with compatible Android and Apple devices. Enjoy your favorite content through the six-speaker audio system and keep your electronic gadgets powered up with available USB ports and 12V power points. Advanced Safety Technology The Ford Explorer harnesses the power of technology to keep you and your passengers safe each time you get behind the wheel. The automatic Lane-Keeping System alerts you when you drift out of your lane, and the rear parking sensors provide an audible warning when you get too close to objects behind your vehicle. For backing up into tight parking spaces, the Rear View Camera provides valuable visual assistance while driving in reverse gear. Discover the versatility and innovation of the Ford Explorer and connect with the knowledgeable sales team at Auffenberg Ford Belleville in Belleville, IL to learn more.

A 2024 Ford Bronco kicking up dust as it navigates a difficult wilderness trail.

Trim Levels of the 2024 Ford Bronco

The 2024 Ford Bronco is a rugged, compact SUV with a spacious interior and powerful engine options. You can choose from two doors or four as well as nine trail-ready trims. Let’s take a look at the 2024 Ford Bronco trim levels so you can decide on the best set of options for your trailblazing, go-anywhere ultimate SUV. more 1. Big Ben The 2024 Ford Bronco Big Ben is loaded with standard features, including the full Ford CoPilot360 suite of driver assistance tech, a 12-inch touchscreen with voice recognition, and a seven-speaker stereo system. The base powertrain incorporates four-wheel drive, a seven-speed manual transmission, and the Ford EcoBoost engine, which gets 275 horsepower. It also boasts wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with standard satellite radio. 2. Black Diamond The Black Diamond trim is ready for anything with rubberized flooring that has integrated drain plugs. You'll be able to hose your interior clean in minutes. This Bronco model also adds rock rails, auxiliary lighting, skid plates, and steel bumpers. 3. Outer Banks The Outer Banks trim gives you additional safety features such as a lane-keeping system. You'll also notice sporty exterior additions like the body-colored fender flares, which match the body-colored door handles. This Bronco has leather upholstery and dual-zone automatic climate control. 4. Heritage Edition Consider the Heritage Edition for the control of a terrain management system with six different modes as well as full-time four-wheel drive. It has a distinctive interior look with ambient LED lighting and a special edition console badge, and a unique two-tone color scheme that stands out in the lineup. 5. Badlands The Badlands trim gives you an extra driving mode for a total of seven as well as raised suspension, upgraded shocks, and larger tires. You can also keep all your passengers connected with two additional USB ports, bringing the complete count to six. 6. Everglades Like the Badlands trim, the Bronco Everglades has marine-grade vinyl upholstery, and this trim adds the comfort of heated front seats. If you select the 10-speed automatic transmission, this model also incorporates Trail Turn Assist and Trail Control. 7. Wildtrak The Bronco Wildtrak is built for tough terrain. It has a steel front bumper with integrated fog lamps, electronic locking front and rear axle, high ground clearance, and Fox internal bypass dampers. 8. Heritage Limited Edition This Bronco model adds safety features including adaptive cruise control, a 360-degree camera, and forward and reverse parking sensors. You'll also appreciate the sound of a 10-speaker Bang & Olufsen audio system. 9. Raptor With the top-tier Raptor trim, you get a larger, more powerful engine that delivers 418 hp. It also has rugged features like a front stabilizer bar disconnect and trailer sway control. In addition, many of the features of various trim levels can be added as individual add-ons, or may be available in special technology packages. If you're ready for adventure, you need the 2024 Bronco in your life. Visit Auffenberg Ford, Inc. in Belleville, IL to test drive any of these distinctive models, or to custom order your own.

A man holding a door for a woman as she gets out of the driver's side of a black 2024 Ford Expedition in front of a hotel.

Family Expeditions Redefined: The 2024 Ford Expedition

The 2024 Ford Expedition is one of the most impressive family hauler sport utility vehicles on the market right now. It has an expanse of interior space, a commendable towing capacity, and plenty of safety features to keep the whole family secure. Let’s take a deep dive into what to expect from the 2024 Ford Expedition and how it exemplifies family expeditions redefined. more Space for Everyone and Everything The regular 2024 Ford Expedition trims seat five, while MAX trims seat seven or eight people. Both the regular and MAX trims have a vast amount of interior space to accommodate people and cargo comfortably. There are over 60 inches of shoulder room in every row, 40 inches of legroom in every row with the seats fully forward, and over 60 inches of hip room in the first and second rows. The third row has 51.4 inches of hip room. The regular trims and MAX trims have 104.6 and 121.5 cubic feet of maximum cargo volume, respectively. You get to use all of this space by folding down the third and second rows. There are also several ways you can configure the seating to transport both cargo and passengers; the second row has a 40/20/40 split fold-flat bench with CenterSlide. A Towing Capacity to Be Proud Of The MAX is a large and sturdy vehicle with a 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 engine. This gives it a very impressive towing capacity. The MAX trims can tow up to 9,000 pounds. The strongest Expedition models are the regular 4x2 models, towing up to 9,300 pounds. The regular 4x4 Expedition models come in second, towing up to 9,200 pounds. Navigation To Help You Find Your Way The Expedition comes with a standard 1-year Connected Navigation plan. This lets you get a feel for how helpful it is without having to upgrade to a higher trim or pay any extra fees. Safety for Every Situation Ford Co-Pilot360 is standard on the Expedition. Its features are a Blind Spot Information System with Cross-Traffic Alert, Evasive Steering Assist, a rearview camera, Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking, and a Lane-Keeping System. These features aim to keep you safe at the front, rear, and sides of your car and in every driving situation. The safety suite also has Hill Descent Control, enhancing your safety on steep inclines. Technology and Connectivity at All Times The Expedition's 12-inch SYNC 4 infotainment system has a 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot, letting you go online anywhere. There are smart-charging USB ports to keep your devices charged on the road, too. There are two USB ports in the front and two in the second row in regular models. Some MAX trims also have two in the third row. Looking for a new vehicle to take you on your next expedition? Come check out the Ford Expedition at Auffenberg Ford Belleville.

A red 2024 Ford Maverick towing a camper trailer. The road lines and background are blurred to give the impression of motion.

Urban Explorer: The 2024 Ford Maverick

The 2024 Ford Maverick is an exciting and powerful compact pickup truck ready to take on whatever comes its way. It boasts excellent handling, cutting-edge features, and an unbeatable design. Here's your guide to the all-new Ford Maverick, so you can see for yourself how it’s the ultimate Urban Explorer when you need to get the job done around town. more 1. Performance and Versatility Discover unparalleled performance in the all-new 2024 Ford Maverick. It impresses with its cutting-edge performance features and robust engines, making it ideal for various needs. Its unibody construction ensures smooth rides, minimizes rollovers, and promotes better fuel economy. Under the hood is a 250-horsepower two-cylinder EcoBoost powertrain. With this engine, you can opt for the available 4K Tow Package, which includes a trailer hitch receiver with a 7-pin connector that makes it easy to bring your boat on a weekend getaway. There is also a 2.5-liter hybrid engine, generating a combined 191-horsepower while working with an automatic continuously variable transmission. Available all-wheel drive sends power to all four wheels for improved traction. When adequately equipped, the Ford Maverick has a maximum towing capacity of 4,000 pounds. 2. Comfort and Entertainment The Ford Maverick comes equipped with advanced cabin tech and comfortable design elements to make every trip enjoyable. It has ample seating space for five passengers, and outward visibility is top-notch thanks to its high seating position. Every Maverick model features a 4-foot 6-inch bed, and the cabin has several storage options for drinks, laptops, and other smaller equipment. The Maverick comes standard with an 8-inch LCD touchscreen, Bluetooth technology, and six speakers. There is also a 4.2-inch instrument cluster screen that provides essential information about the vehicle's operation and status. The standard FordPass Connect app enables drivers to access remote features like start/stop, car location, fuel levels, and oil life: all from their smartphones. 3. Safety and Driver Assistance When it comes to safety, rest assured that you'll be well covered in the 2024 Maverick, with features like automatic emergency brakes that can detect a possible car crash and automatically apply the brakes. There is also cruise control, which allows you to set your car to a particular speed, letting you remove your foot from the accelerator pedal. The auto high beam headlamps automatically adjust between low and high beams depending on the outside lighting conditions. The rearview camera will help you see the area behind your vehicle when backing up. Additional safety features include smart occupant sensing airbags, safety canopy side-curtain airbags, and a tire pressure monitoring system. The 2024 Maverick is a fantastic, budget-friendly pickup truck. It has several off-road features and five drive modes to suit different driving conditions. Ready to explore its excellent features? Stop by Auffenberg Ford Belleville in Belleville, IL, today to take the versatile Ford Maverick for a test drive.

An image of jumper cables being affixed to a car battery.

3 Signs Your Ford Needs a New Car Battery

It's no surprise to anyone that a car's battery might give out, and though we all hope that it doesn't happen at a bad time, it's important to stay ahead of potential dangers by knowing the signs. While warnings may differ from model to model, here are a few ways to tell when you should come down to see us at your local Ford dealer and pick up a new car battery. more Electrical Difficulties First off, weakening batteries can weaken the vehicle's electrical systems. These problems can be totally car-related, like slowed headlights or slowed interior lights, or battery-based, like in the case of overcharging. Batteries that overcharge are then far more prone to becoming damaged; the amount of power running through them is massive, and, if not reduced by the assistance of the alternator, at risk of boiling the solution inside the battery. In the same vein but on the opposite end, weakening batteries require more jump-starts than strong ones do as they just can't hold a strong charge anymore. While many cars demand a jump-start now and then, if it's happening all the time then your battery is probably dying. There's also the slow-crank problem; an engine that sounds like it's toiling to start is another sign that you need a new battery, as battery-drain is one of the major causes. Visible Damage While a little bit of corrosion can be easily handled through cleaning, more significant cases of wear-and-tear are another good sign that a battery's time has come. A battery that has become damaged enough to lose its original shape (or a battery that has become swollen, and is therefore notably deformed) is not only at risk of breaking down, but could also totally rupture, presenting a danger to the car's systems as well. Time and Age In some cases, it's helpful to replace the battery by just staying ahead of the curve! A Ford battery can generally be expected to last some three to five years, and batteries that have been in use longer than that need constant looking out for.  An experienced technician may be able to glance at your battery's voltage and keep you informed about its health, or lack thereof, and thus help you to determine when it ought to be replaced. Think you may have a damaged or defunct battery but aren't entirely sure? Come see us at Auffenberg Ford Belleville and let our service department give your battery a check-up. Our technicians are experienced, friendly, and well-prepared to give both your battery and your vehicle any help that they might need.

A Ford Bronco with the side doors removed, tackling dusty, rocky desert terrain backed by a hill with scrub grass.

Trim Levels of the 2024 Ford Bronco

The 2024 Ford Bronco is a rugged, compact SUV with a spacious interior and powerful engine options. You can choose from two doors or four as well as nine trail-ready trims. This makes for a supremely customizable vehicle that can suit almost any need or budget, as well as one of the most powerful off-roading beasts on the market today. Let’s explore each of the 2024 Ford Bronco Trim Levels. more 1. Big Ben The 2024 Ford Bronco Big Ben is loaded with standard features, including the full Ford CoPilot360 suite of driver assistance tech, a 12-inch touchscreen with voice recognition, and a seven-speaker stereo system. The base powertrain incorporates four-wheel drive, a seven-speed manual transmission, and the Ford EcoBoost engine, which gets 275 horsepower. It also boasts wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with standard satellite radio. 2. Black Diamond The Black Diamond trim is ready for anything with rubberized flooring that has integrated drain plugs. You'll be able to hose your interior clean in minutes. This Bronco model also adds rock rails, auxiliary lighting, skid plates, and steel bumpers. 3. Outer Banks The Outer Banks trim gives you additional safety features such as a lane-keeping system. You'll also notice sporty exterior additions like the body-colored fender flares, which match the body-colored door handles. This Bronco has leather upholstery and dual-zone automatic climate control. 4. Heritage Edition Consider the Heritage Edition for the control of a terrain management system with six different G.O.A.T. (Goes Over Any Terrain) modes as well as full-time four-wheel drive. It has a distinctive interior look with ambient LED lighting and a special edition console badge, and a unique two-tone color scheme that stands out in the lineup. 5. Badlands The Badlands trim gives you an extra driving mode for a total of seven G.O.A.T. Modes, as well as raised suspension, upgraded shocks, and larger tires. You can also keep all your passengers connected with two additional USB ports, bringing the complete count to six. 6. Everglades Like the Badlands trim, the Bronco Everglades has marine-grade vinyl upholstery, and this trim adds the comfort of heated front seats. If you select the 10-speed automatic transmission, this model also incorporates Trail Turn Assist and Trail Control. 7. Wildtrak The Bronco Wildtrak is built for tough terrain. It has a steel front bumper with integrated fog lamps, electronic locking front and rear axle, high ground clearance, and Fox internal bypass dampers for superior performance when trailblazing. 8. Heritage Limited Edition This Bronco model adds safety features including adaptive cruise control, a 360-degree camera, and forward and reverse parking sensors. You'll also appreciate the sound of a 10-speaker Bang & Olufsen audio system. 9. Raptor With the top-tier Raptor trim, you get a larger, more powerful engine that delivers 418 hp. It also has rugged features like a front stabilizer bar disconnect and trailer sway control to take your ability to tackle off-road and difficult terrain to an entirely new level. If you're ready for adventure, you need the 2024 Bronco in your life. Visit Auffenberg Ford, Inc. in Belleville, IL to test drive any of these distinctive models.

An image of four ignition coils

4 Signs of a Faulty Ignition Coil

Ignition coils perform the impressive feat of transforming the battery's meager 12 volts into an enormous surge of 25,000 to 45,000 volts for the spark plugs. If your car’s ignition coil malfunctions, its connected spark plug won't be able to keep sparking and all kinds of engine trouble will ensue. Here are four clear warning signs that you may have a faulty ignition coil in your Ford car, truck, or SUV, and what to do if you think you may need a new coil. more Weakened Acceleration As most engine cylinders have just one ignition coil, when that coil fails, that cylinder can no longer produce power for your car. This weakens the engine, reducing acceleration and making it harder to overtake other vehicles. With a bad coil, you might also find it harder to reach and maintain high speeds on the highway. Reduced Fuel Efficiency With one cylinder failing to fire properly because of a faulty coil, your engine won't be able to carry your car as much distance for each mile of gas it guzzles. You'll need to stop for gas more often and unless you have a new coil installed, you'll soon need to increase your weekly gas budget. Coughing, Shuddering Engine The usual smooth rumble of your engine is generated by all four, six, or eight cylinders firing in a finely tuned rhythm. When one cylinder's spark plug fails to ignite the fuel because of a malfunctioning coil, this rhythm is broken; your engine will cough and shudder as it struggles to keep going. The symptoms of misfiring become most noticeable when the car slows down or rests in idle, which can strain the engine at the best of times. While idling, your engine will sputter alarmingly and may stall. Backfiring and Exhaust Smoke It's important to repair or change a bad coil immediately because, given time, misfiring can cause further damage to other car parts. The unburned fuel in the misfiring cylinder can ignite as the valve opens, creating a loud bang. The fuel can then leak back into the exhaust pipes, causing more backfiring, generating smoke, and potentially destroying the catalytic converter. How Often to Replace Coils at Your Ford Dealer As with almost every car part, your coils need to be routinely replaced. They're normally long-lasting components with lifespans of 60,000 to 100,000 miles. However, coils can occasionally become damaged prematurely by faults with the wiring or spark plugs. Excessive heat and vibrations, or carbon fouling, can also harm your engine's coils. Visit Auffenberg Ford Belleville in Belleville, IL, to have your coils repaired, refurbished, or replaced today. We're a locally trusted dealership offering a broad range of new and pre-owned vehicles, prompt maintenance services, and attentive customer care.

An image of a collection of new car parts sitting on a wooden table or bench.

Why OEM Parts Are Crucial for Your Ford's Performance

When facing a vehicle repair job, it's seldom wise to cut corners with a sub-par aftermarket car part. Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) parts are higher quality, more durable, more compatible with your car, have better warranties, and can save you money in the long run. Here's a detailed guide to not only why OEM parts are crucial for your Ford’s performance, but the many other benefits of opting for genuine OEM parts at your local Ford dealership. more Your Peace of Mind Is Protected by a Superior Warranty Let's talk about warranties. Many drivers appreciate the reassurance offered by a robust and generous warranty when purchasing a new car part. You can probably guess the reason why OEM warranties are usually far superior to the warranties that (occasionally) come with generic parts. It's because OEM car parts are simply better and more reliable in every way. The manufacturer, Ford, is happy to guarantee that they'll handle any defects or issues directly because faults are so rare. OEM Car Parts Are Perfectly Compatible with Your Car With an OEM car part, you're installing exactly the same component that came with the original vehicle. You're guaranteed a perfect fit, just as Ford's engineers intended. By contrast, with generic car parts, the technical specifications are often slightly off, which can lead to all kinds of problems later on. You Get Consistently High Quality with OEM Components OEM car parts meet Ford's high production standards, just like all the parts of your car when it was first assembled. With generic parts, there are no such standards of quality. And once a poor-quality aftermarket part is installed, it often won't take long to notice the difference. Your Vehicle's Longevity Is Bolstered by OEM Components Over time, wear and tear are minimized when all the parts are genuine Ford parts. This is because when you use all OEM parts, they work in perfect unison as designed. When you start installing random generic car parts, on the other hand, wear and tear is often increased. This can shorten the overall lifespan of your vehicle. You Save Money in the Long Run with OEM Car Parts Some drivers are tempted to cut short-term costs with cheaper generic car parts. However, this can often lead to greater expenses over time because these cheaper parts don't last as long as OEM components, meaning you need to replace them more frequently. Aftermarket parts can also increase the number of required repair jobs with other connected car components. Learn More at Your Local Ford Dealership You can find out more about the superior quality of OEM car parts at your local dealership. The technicians will be happy to explain why it makes sense to install a new part that's stamped with the reputable Ford brand. Visit Auffenberg Ford Belleville in Belleville, IL, today to have genuine car parts installed in your vehicle by qualified professionals. We're a local full-service dealership offering excellent vehicles, deals, financing options, and customer care.

An image of a Ford Expedition hauling and towing a boat and kayak on a family vacation with the father securing the kayak and a youth on a bicycle standing at the back.

Maximizing Adventures: The 2024 Ford Expedition Max

The 2024 Ford Expedition MAX has been beautifully designed for large families to go on big adventures together. This spacious SUV provides drivers with impressive performance, and passengers with plenty of space and comfort features. Check out our guide below for an introduction to its excellent features. more Maximizing Adventures: High-Powered Performance Every 2024 Ford Expedition MAX trim comes with 380 horsepower under the hood, generated by a standard 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 engine. This is paired with a responsive 10-speed automatic SelectShift transmission for a smooth ride. Towing Capacity The Expedition MAX is an impressive vehicle for towing, with a maximum towing capacity of 9,000 pounds. To get the most from your towing experience, you'll want to add the Heavy-Duty Trailer Tow Package. There is also an available Pro Trailer Backup Assist 2.0 feature. This available technology will help you smoothly steer in reverse and attach your trailer. Intelligent 4WD The available intelligent four-wheel drive feature with a terrain management system allows you to optimize your driving experience. This available feature includes seven distinct driving modes optimized for a wide variety of ​road conditions. These modes include Normal, for your everyday commute, and Eco, to help you save money on fuel. There is also the Sport mode, Tow/Haul mode, and the Grass/Gravel/Snow mode designed to help you traverse loose terrain and cold Illinois winters. You'll also have a Sand mode, and Mud/Ruts modes. These optimized modes help you automatically adjust, while also allowing you to take control and make decisions, like switching between 2WD and 4WD in any of the drive modes. Room for Everyone Large families love the high-powered Expedition MAX trims with eight-passenger seating and spacious cargo area. The Expedition MAX trims come with a 131.6-inch wheelbase, which is 9.1 inches longer than other Expedition trims. This adds 15 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third-row seats, for 34.3 cubic feet of cargo space in total. Folding the second and third-row seats down creates 121.5 cubic feet of cargo space behind the first-row seats. High-Quality Infotainment Features Ford's Sync4 software is incredibly user-friendly, and now accepts over-the-air updates, so drivers always have the latest tech. The 12.0-inch touchscreen has large icons, and is equipped with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Expedition MAX has Wi-Fi hotspot capabilities, allowing drivers to set up a subscription and keep the whole family connected. There are also available upgrades, including a 15.5-inch touchscreen, and a 22-speaker stereo system. One upgrade that families may be particularly interested in is the new rear-seat entertainment system. This available feature will add touchscreens to the rear of the front seats, giving second-row passengers built-in entertainment for long drives. Families looking for a comfortable road trip vehicle will love the Expedition MAX. Visit Auffenberg Ford, Inc. in Belleville, IL now to see our wide selection of excellent vehicles.

An image of new brakes applied to a vehicle.

5 Signs Your Ford Needs a Brake Repair

The brakes are the single most important safety feature in any car, so you should always contact your Ford dealer ASAP when you need a brake repair. To make sure you always contact the dealer promptly when something is wrong, it's a good idea to learn the signs that your brakes need some attention. more Signs Your Brake Pads Need to Be Changed The brake pads need to be changed periodically, though how frequently yours will need to be changed depends on several factors. There are several signs the pads need to be changed, and they're typically easy to recognize. Here are some signs to look out for: Brake pedal has no resistance or feels soft Squealing or grinding sound when you brake Vibration when you brake Brake pad indicator light comes on The vehicle starts to pull to one side or another 1. The Brake Pedal Has No Resistance When you don't feel resistance when you apply the brake pedal, it means there's a problem with your vehicle. If you activate the parking brake and don't feel any resistance while doing that, either, then it also means there's a problem. Often, a lack of resistance when you apply the brakes indicates a brake fluid leak or an air leak in one of the brake hoses. 2. The Brake Pedal Makes a Squealing or Grinding Sound There are several reasons why a brake might squeal – dust can sometimes get in the pads, for example. But if the squealing is loud and occurs regularly every time you step on the brakes, or worse, you hear (or feel) a grinding when you step on the brakes, it could be a sign your brakes are critically low. 3. The Car Vibrates When You Brake Vibration isn't just a symptom of having worn-out brake pads. It can also be a sign that your brake pads can't grab the rotors' surface evenly due to warped rotors. The vibration will happen during regular braking and not just panic braking, but the vibration may feel similar to the vibration caused by anti-lock braking during emergency stops. 4. The Brake Pad Indicator Lights Up If you see a dash indicator light up that indicates your brakes are low, this is a definite sign it’s time to get them checked. Many new cars have a sensor that triggers such an indicator and when you see it, you should never ignore it. 5. The Vehicle Is Pulling Your car may sometimes pull to one side when you apply the brakes. This is a sign that your brake linings are not wearing down evenly, so you need a brake adjustment as soon as possible. Sometimes foreign matter in the brake fluid can also cause your vehicle to pull to one side when you hit the brakes, so make sure you stay on top of your fluid changes. Pay a visit to Auffenberg Ford, Inc. in Belleville, IL when your brakes are having problems. Be sure to stop by for regular brake service such as fluid changes and brake pad replacements, too.

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