Blog

All Auffenberg Ford Belleville Belleville Ford Dealer Research Sport Utility Vehicle Truck Auffenberg Ford, Inc. Service Belleville Ford Service Repair Service 2026 Ford F-150 2026 Ford Maverick Belleville Used Cars Bronco Sport 2026 Bronco Sport Fuel Efficient Ford Models
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 service technician performing an oil change on a vehicle that is up on racks in a bay.

Is Your Ford Due for an Oil Change?

If there's one vehicle service you wouldn't want to miss, it's changing the oil. Even slight degradation in motor oil diminishes its ability to lubricate, clean, and protect your car's engine. This means permanent wear and tear to the engine's internal components, which hinders the power, performance, and longevity of your car. If you notice the following indications of engine trouble, head to your local Ford dealer right away for an oil change. more Your Indicator Light Every modern vehicle has a dashboard indicator light that lets you know when it’s time to get your oil serviced. For most vehicles, it appears every 10,000 miles or so, but this can vary widely depending on the individual vehicle’s make or model. If you see the oil change indicator light (which looks like an oil can), get in for service. Knocking Sounds The primary job of motor oil is to keep the many moving parts fully lubricated. But as oil ages and fills with contaminants, it starts to thicken and turn into sludge, compromising its viscosity and losing its lubricating properties. This causes the pistons, rods, shafts, pushrods, and valves to rub and knock against each other, generating friction and knocking noises. If you hear tapping, banging, or knocking coming from your car's engine compartment, pull over and check the oil; it may need to be changed at once. Strange Vibrations When an unlubricated engine starts to struggle, you'll feel the car vibrating strangely. These excess vibrations are likely to be more noticeable when you're idling. Smell of Burning If your motor oil leaks, you may smell it burning as it drips onto heated engine parts. Low or degraded oil can cause overheating as well, which may also generate a burning smell. Overheating Engine The motor oil aids the coolant in controlling the engine's temperature. Therefore, if your oil reduces, leaks, or deteriorates, your car is more likely to overheat. This will cause the engine power to plummet and the dashboard's engine temperature gauge to shoot up. You might also hear loud ticking sounds and see white vapor rising from under the hood. Blue Exhaust Smoke Sometimes, oxidized oil can leak past the valve seals or piston rings into the combustion chambers. Therein, it burns alongside the fuel, potentially causing strange bluish smoke to escape from the tailpipe. Thick, Grimy Oil It's wise to periodically inspect your motor oil. If the oil is darkened and grimy, clearly filled with dirt and particles, have it refreshed. Motor oil continually collects contaminants from the engine, sweeping all debris into the oil filter. This filter needs to be changed before it fills up; otherwise, the collected debris will reenter the oil, leading to rapid degradation. Change Oil Twice a Year at Your Ford Dealer Even the most diligent drivers might occasionally forget to change their oil during a busy period. We can help you avoid this risk. When you schedule oil servicing with us, we can remind you whenever your next servicing call is approaching. Visit Auffenberg Ford, Inc. in Belleville, IL, for prompt, courteous vehicle maintenance and repairs. We offer a one-stop shop for all your Ford-related needs, whatever they are.

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 happy family shaking the hand of their finance agent at a local dealership after finalizing the purchase of their new car.

3 Benefits of Getting Financing Through Your Ford Dealer

When you decide to finance your new Ford, you could go to a bank or credit union, or you can visit your friendly Ford dealer for dealer financing. Dealer financing is a simpler, easier, and less stressful process than bank financing. We want to educate our customers on how to make the best choice for your car financing. With that in mind, let’s check out three benefits of car financing through your local Ford dealer. more You Save Time There never seem to be enough hours in the day to do everything you want to. Financing through a bank or credit union is a slow process. You submit your loan application and probably have an interview, then you have to wait. If they approve your loan, you must then visit your dealer to complete the process. The process of dealership financing is faster and more streamlined. You can complete your pre-approval online through our website. Once you've completed the form and submitted it to us, one of our finance managers will contact you to confirm your details. We then submit your application to our specialized pool of local lenders. They'll submit their offers, and once you accept one, your car will be ready to collect from us. More Loan Options Your credit rating has a major influence on whether you get a car loan from a bank. Banks have very strict policies and are very risk-averse. They will provide loans to anyone with great credit, but if you have average credit or credit that needs some improvement, they're more likely to reject your application. You're also limited to their terms and conditions, and they're not negotiable. We don't believe that a lower credit score should stop someone from financing the car they can afford. Our lenders are located here in Illinois, and they have a clear understanding of our local situation. If your credit needs improvement, they can offer you a loan that enables you to increase your credit score as you pay back the loan. You also have more options, as our lenders compete to offer you the best deal. Financing Without Traveling Visiting the bank or credit union to apply, returning to complete your loan paperwork, and then traveling to your dealer to complete your purchase can waste some shoe leather. Our process can be travel-free if you like. You make your application online, as we've seen, and loan offers will be sent to you by email. You can confirm the loan you want online; then you just need your new car. Once you've confirmed the loan you want, we can deliver your new Ford directly to your home or office. There's minimal paperwork to complete, and we'll bring it with us. If you’re ready to look at new car financing, contact our finance department today at Auffenberg Ford, Inc. in Belleville, IL.

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.

A service technician removing a tire.

Need New Tires? Visit Your Ford Dealership

When it comes to road safety, the condition of your tires is all important. As the only point of your car in direct contact with the road, your tires need to handle a great deal of pressure while maintaining firm traction on all surfaces, at all speeds. So if you ever experience one of the following issues, visit your local Ford dealership right away for new tires. more Treads Too Shallow for Safe Driving When the treads of your tires near 2/32 of an inch, the legal minimum in most states including Illinois, it's time for replacements. It's a good idea to check the depths of your tire treads each time you check the air pressure. That way, you'll also notice uneven tread wear, which usually means you need to rotate your tires.  You can do this with the “Abe” test. Put a penny into your tire, head down, and if you see the top of Abe’s head, your tread is too low! Bubbles, Bulges, or Blisters in the Rubber If one of your tires suddenly sports a strange bulge, bubble, or blister, it probably needs to go. External bulges often indicate serious internal damage caused by a heavy knock against a curb or pothole. When the internal tubing ruptures, air can escape and become trapped under the outer layer of rubber, forming a bulge. Cracks, Cuts, or Embedded Objects With most tires, tiny cracks appear in the sidewalls over time as the rubber steadily dries out. These cracks become hazardous when they grow noticeably deeper and longer. Deep cuts anywhere on a tire might also mean it's no longer safe to drive on. Likewise, embedded objects should be removed to see how deeply the tire has been punctured. Ask a technician to diagnose the severity of any such damage. Mysteriously Dropping Air Pressure If your car's automatic air pressure monitor indicates that one of your tires is continuously losing pressure, you'll probably need to have that tire replaced. Inexplicable air loss may point to a hidden puncture or some other fault with your tire, air valve, or wheel rim. Odd Vibrations or Road Noise When tires become excessively uneven or damaged, you're likely to notice strange vibrations, especially when driving at higher speeds. You may also hear a change in the quality of road noise. Always trust your senses in this matter, and ask a technician to check your tires. Rotate Your Tires Twice a Year or More One of the most important tire maintenance services is to have tires rotated twice a year. This evens out tire wear and keeps your tires in great shape for longer. It also gives the technicians a chance to inspect your tires for potential problems that might be causing your tires to wear unevenly. Have your car tires rotated or replaced today at Auffenberg Ford Belleville in Belleville, IL. We're a local full-service dealership offering a one-stop shop for all your vehicle-related needs, whatever they may be.

A couple unpacking their Ford Bronco on a kayaking-camping trip.

Compact Power: The 2024 Ford Bronco Sport

The adventurous 2024 Ford Bronco Sport is a compact SUV that easily tackles off-road challenges while offering exceptional fuel efficiency on highways and plenty of advanced technology throughout its spacious cabin. Let’s check out some of the ways that the 2024 Ford Bronco Sport exemplifies compact power and performance. more Fuel-Efficient Engines Both of the 2024 Bronco Sport's engine offerings are turbocharged, and while most models come with a 181-horsepower 1.5-liter, the off-road-enhanced Badlands model sports a 250-horsepower 2.0-liter instead. When the vehicle's fully equipped, it can tow up to 2,200 pounds with the larger engine and as much as 2,000 pounds with the smaller one, and both engines get excellent mileage, with the 1.5-liter getting an EPA-estimated 29 MPG on highways and the 2.0-liter delivering up to an EPA-estimated 26 MPG. Nature-Ready Versatility This edition also provides plenty of versatility when exploring off-road terrains, thanks to its standard four-wheel drive and the G.O.A.T. Modes terrain management system. The latter feature lets you adjust the vehicle's traction and output based on your surroundings, and all this ruggedness is taken to the next level in Badlands models. A Comfortable Interior Inside the cabin, upscale seating materials are available, ranging from premium cloth to two-tone mini-perforated leather, and the standard 60/40 split-folding seat and available Cargo Management System make hauling cargo a breeze. The front-row seats offer power adjustability and a heating setting, dual-zone climate control is available, and depending on which trim level you go with, you can take your pick between many stylish interior colors, like Ebony, Medium Dark Slate, and a unique Ebony/Roast combination. Style and Convenience The exterior of the vehicle also has plenty of impressive color options to choose from, including Desert Sand, Eruption Green, Azure Gray, and Hot Pepper Red, and every model comes with a safari-style roof that you can easily stack cargo boxes, bike racks, and other accessories on. The liftgate in the back has a flip-up glass panel, you can opt for a power moonroof, and metal bash plates, tow hooks, and other trail-tackling features are available. Advanced Technology There's plenty of innovative technology too, like the standard SYNC 3 infotainment system, which comes with a full-color touchscreen display and voice control technology. Available features include a 10-speaker B&O sound system, the 180-degree Trail Cam, a universal garage door opener, and a wireless charging pad. Driver-assist highlights include standard features for highways like the Blind Spot Information System (BLIS), Pre-Collision Assist, Automatic Emergency Braking, and Lane-Keeping System, as well as stability-enhancing features like Electronic Traction Control. While all of these key features are impressive, they're simply a preview of everything the 2024 Bronco Sport has to offer, so come test-drive it today by contacting us at Auffenberg Ford in Belleville, IL.

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 cutaway photograph of a car transmission, showing all the working parts.

Recognizing When It's Time for Transmission Service for Your Ford

Have you noticed strange grinding or whining sounds from below when you shift gears? Are your gears less smooth, delayed, or even refusing to shift at all? Is there a puddle of red fluid under the front of your car? If you're experiencing any of the transmission problems laid out below, it's time to visit your local Ford dealer for prompt transmission service and repair. more Whining or Grinding Sounds When in good shape, transmissions should shift smoothly and silently. If you hear whining sounds, your gearbox might have insufficient lubrication. You'll need to have the transmission fluid, lines, filter, and pump inspected for faults. Metallic grinding might indicate more serious trouble as gears or other moving parts are rubbing roughly against each other. Clunking or gurgling sounds also shouldn't be ignored. Delayed Gear Engagement Delayed engagement means that the gears take a few seconds longer than usual to fully engage after you shift. As gear shifting should be instantaneous, any delay indicates a potentially serious problem. There might be an issue with the solenoid, seals, bands, pump, filter, or gear sets. A technician will need to diagnose and repair the fault. Slipping or Sticking Gears If your engine starts revving loudly when you shift gears, or you find it hard to accelerate, then your gears might be slipping. A slipping transmission can also cause the gears to suddenly slip into neutral all on their own, which is hazardous while on the road. Slipping might be caused by a worn-out clutch, or by a number of other malfunctions. Likewise, gears that stick and refuse to shift at all are usually a serious sign of gearbox trouble. Leaking Transmission Fluid Transmission fluid is essential for proper gearbox performance. If your transmission fluid ever leaks, you might notice a clear, pink, red, or light brown fluid pooling under your car. You can use the dipstick to check the level of transmission fluid. If it's low, you'll need to have it topped up. If it's a dirty brown color, you'll probably need to flush and replace it with fresh fluid. Burning Smells in the Cabin Transmission fluid is very durable but gradually wears down over time and can eventually start to burn in the heat of the transmission. If this occurs, you might detect a burning smell in the cabin above. Your burning transmission fluid will need to be changed. How Often to Have Transmission Servicing at Your Ford Dealer Transmission fluid typically needs to be flushed every 60,000 to 100,000 miles for most drivers of automatic vehicles. If you have a manual car, you'll need to flush your transmission fluid every 30,000 to 6,000 miles. During your routine maintenance visits, ask a trusted technician to keep an eye on the condition and level of your transmission fluid. Visit Auffenberg Ford Belleville in Belleville, IL, today to have your transmission checked and serviced by qualified professionals. We're a local full-service dealership offering the region's drivers high-quality vehicles, deals, and customer service.

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.

Contact Us

Fill out this form below and we'll contact you shortly
*Required Fields