If you’re currently looking for a great deal on a like-new Ford vehicle with very low miles, you might want to consider purchasing (or leasing) a Ford Courtesy Transport Vehicle. Keep reading to learn about the Ford Courtesy Transport Vehicle or call your sales representative at Bill MacDonald Ford to schedule a test drive!
What is it?
One of the most common questions about the Ford Courtesy Transport Vehicle Program is, “what is it?”. In the simplest terms, the Ford Courtesy Transport program consists of new Ford inventory that we use as service rentals until they reach 2,000 miles. When the vehicles reach 2,000 miles, we can sell (or lease) them as low-mile used vehicles.
Why Should I Buy a Courtesy Vehicle?
There are tons of reasons why you should buy a Ford Courtesy Vehicle but the most popular reason is a lower payment. Ford Courtesy Vehicles are compatible with the different Ford friends and family plans (AXZD) and also have a Courtesy Program Rebate. Ford Courtesy Vehicles also have an extra rebate to make up for the miles on the vehicle. Rebates change per vehicle, contact your Bill MacDonald Ford sales representative for more information.
CLICK HERE TO BROWSE OUR CURRENT AVAILABLE COURTESY VEHICLES
When you’re shopping for a car, one of the first things you probably look at is what type of drivetrain does the vehicle have. With more options than ever before, FWD (front-wheel drive), RWD (rear-wheel drive), AWD (all-wheel drive), 4WD ( four-wheel drive or 4X4), Intelligent AWD, and Intelligent 4WD, things can get confusing but have no fear, we are here to break it down for you!
Front-Wheel Drive (FWD):
Front-Wheel Drive, most commonly seen as FWD, means that the power from the engine is delivered to the front wheels on your vehicle. This means that the front wheels are pulling the vehicle forward and causing the rear wheels to spin. The rear wheels do not receive any power from the engine. FWD vehicles, like certain Ford Fusion models, can maintain traction in rain or light snow but can get stuck or slide during heavy snow-storms.
Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD):
Rear-Wheel Drive, most commonly seen as RWD, means that the power from the engine is delivered to the rear wheels on your vehicle. This means that the rear wheels are pushing the car forward. RWD works the opposite of FWD. RWD vehicles, like the GT350, are said to be more exciting to drive but do not perform well in poor weather.
All-Wheel Drive (AWD):
All-Wheel Drive, most commonly seen as AWD, means that the drivetrain employs a front, rear, and center differential to provide power to all four wheels of the vehicle. As implied by the name, the engine’s power is dispersed to all of the wheels, not just the front or just the back. AWD vehicles are typically coupes, sedans, and certain SUVs, like the Ford Edge.
Intelligent All-Wheel Drive:
Intelligent All-Wheel Drive is something that is equipped in Ford vehicles. A Ford vehicle that has an intelligent All-wheel drive drivetrain has a system that uses sensors that calculate the road conditions and monitors a variety of factors including speed and throttle. The system will then respond by delivering torque and power where it is needed most. For example, during rain or snow, if wheel slip is detected in the front wheels, up to 100% of the torque can be sent to the rear axle. The system is not just reactive though, it can proactively respond within milliseconds and redirect the power to the wheels with the most traction to help prevent slip from happening in the first place.
Four-Wheel Drive (4WD, 4X4):
Four-Wheel Drive, most commonly seen as 4WD, is very similar to AWD because the power of the engine is also delivered to all four wheels all of the time. 4WD is typically found in vehicles that have off-roading capabilities, such as trucks and SUVs.
Intelligent Four-Wheel Drive:
An Intelligent Four-Wheel Drive vehicle has pretty much the same technology as Intelligent an AWD vehicle but vehicles with Intelligent 4WD can handle rugged terrain better. With Intelligent 4WD, sensors automatically and instantly respond to wheel slip on off-road surfaces such as rocks, mud, and grass or snow, adjusting torque and power to the wheels. This instant reaction provides prevents slippage while adding a nice boost of driving confidence.
Now that you know the differences between drivetrains, you can easily decide what type of vehicle is right for you! Contact your Bill MacDonald Ford sales representative or our internet manager, Tori, to learn about our newest models, financing options, or to schedule a test drive!
Sources:
https://www.buyfordnow.com/feature/awd-intelligent-all-wheel-drive?gnav=t2-footer-features
https://www.newroads.ca/blog/understanding-drivetrain-rwd-fwd-awd/
If you’ve checked the weather lately, you’re probably aware that a winter storm is on its way to Saint Clair County! For some, this is great news, for others – not so much. Regardless of where you stand on winter weather, the staff at Bill MacDonald Ford wants to make sure that you know the safest way to travel in winter weather and what you need to do to prepare your vehicle for the incoming storm.
VEHICLE TIPS
1.KEEP YOUR GAS TANK AT OR ABOVE 1/4 of tank
-Condensation can build up causing fuel lines to freeze (if it gets cold enough)
-When you run low on fuel, the fuel pump may suck in air which could lead to future repairs that are quite expensive.
2. Replace summer windshield washer fluid with winter rated type fluid.
-Some windshield washer fluids freeze, make sure you have fluid that won’t freeze.
3. Make sure your vehicle is in good repair before driving long distances or during extreme winter weather.
-Extreme weather can cause your vehicle to run harder, make sure it is ready for it to avoid costly breakdowns.
4. Check all lights.
-Visibility is extremely important. Make sure all your lights are in working order so that other drivers can see you when visibility is poor.
5. Check Tires.
-Make sure you have adequate tread
-Check inflation regularly, changing temperatures can cause changes in tire pressure.
WINTER WEATHER EMERGENCY KIT FOR YOUR CAR
Keep these items in your vehicle to make sure that you are prepared for winter weather-related emergencies if they should arise.
- Flares/Roadside Visibility
- Water and Energy Bars
- Blankets
- First Aid Kit
- Ice-Scraper/Snow Brush
- Jumper Cables
- Flashlight and Batteries
- Tire Pressure Checker
- Spare Windshield Washer Fluid and Wipers
- Tire Chains (If hilly/mountain driving)
- Road Salt
- Kitty Litter/Extra Floor Mats
- Small Shovel
- Extra boots, sweaters, and jackets
- Basic Tool Kit
DRIVING TIPS
1. Check current and future weather conditions before leaving.
-Knowing what to expect will make for easier travels.
2. Plan alternate routes.
-Weather can change in the blink of an eye, having an alternate route planned will help avoid traffic jams caused by winter accidents.
3. Drive Slow
-Safety first, give yourself time to get where you are going.
4. Brake Gently
-Hard Braking can lead to slipping and sliding
5. Sliding
-If your rear tire slides: take your foot off of the accelerator and steer in the direction you want the front wheels to go. If your rear wheels start to slide in the other direction, ease the steering wheel in the same direction as the wheels. Repeat gently until the vehicle is under control.
-If your front tires slide: take your foot off the gas, shift to neutral, as traction returns, steer in the direction you want your vehicle to move. Put the vehicle in drive and gently accelerate.
6. Getting Un-Stuck
-Turn your wheels from side to side to push snow away from the tires. Clear snow away from the wheels and underside of the car. Was your car out with gentle acceleration. Avoid wheel spinning. If your wheels keep spinning, use kitty litter or floor mats to gain traction.
This photo has been circulating the internet lately if you can relate…please read this article so that you no longer will.
HOW TO PARALLEL PARK YOUR VEHICLE IN 10 SIMPLE STEPS!
1. Find an available spot and turn on your vehicle’s blinker.
2. Make sure that you have enough space to park your vehicle (You should have at least enough room to fit 1.5 of your vehicles)
3. Pull your vehicle up parallel to the vehicle parked in front of the space you are trying to park in.
4. CHECK FOR TRAFFIC
5. Position the rear tires even with the bumper of the parked vehicle.
6. Turn the steering wheel all the way to the right.
7. Start reversing
8. Begin to straighten the wheel when your vehicle’s mirrors are making a 45-degree angle with the front vehicles rear bumper.
9. Turn the wheel to the left when your car just barely clears the front car. Continue reversing until your car is parallel with the curb.
10. Straighten the wheel and pull forward.
If you are still confused or would like a visual aid watch this video: https://youtu.be/bXFmih1FVgs
The Future of the Ford Fusion
It has been quite some time since Ford Motor Company announced the cancellation of nearly all passenger-car models but, we have noticed that there are some misconceptions about the future of the Ford Fusion. At Bill MacDonald Ford, we believe that an informed customer is the best customer, so we’re here to set the record straight for you.
The 2020 Ford Fusion is not going to be the last year of production for the Ford Fusion, according to a statement first published by CarsDirect.com, a Ford spokesperson from Ford Motor Company said that “there are still a couple more years left for the Fusion” and that their goal “is to further simplify the offering and focus on maximizing the more popular SE, SEL, and Titanium models.” which explains the missing Fusion Sport (discontinued in 2019). It has not been confirmed if Ford will continue to the Ford Fusion after 2021. However, we do know that Ford is planning to have 23 nameplates in its vehicle lineup by 2023, and they only had 20 when they first announced the discontinuing of sedans. We can only hope that the Fusion is here to stay, stay tuned for more updates and news regarding the Ford Fusion and the future of the Ford lineup.
Sources:
https://www.carsdirect.com/automotive-news/ford-fusion-sport-discontinued-for-2020-model-year?src=20&lnk=TnL5HPStwNw-eH1IXlldC6oFey0lLBws3w
https://www.autonews.com/sales/ford-says-fusion-output-will-continue-least-through-2021
https://www.caranddriver.com/news/a27791904/ford-fusion-lineup-dies-2021/
Many people in Saint Clair County woke up to a blanket of snow, and on the way to work, we saw quite a few accidents. At Bill MacDonald Ford, our customers’ safety is of the utmost importance. To help keep our customers safe, we have put together a list of our favorite tips and tricks to prepare you and your vehicle for winter and winter driving. Keep reading and please share so that you and the people you love are as safe as they can be while traveling this winter.
VEHICLE TIPS
1.KEEP YOUR GAS TANK AT OR ABOVE 1/4 of tank
-Condensation can build up causing fuel lines to freeze (if it gets cold enough)
-When you run low on fuel, it is possible that the fuel pump will suck in air which could lead to future repairs that are quite expensive.
2. Replace summer windshield washer fluid with winter rated type fluid.
-Some windshield washer fluids freeze, make sure you have fluid that won’t freeze.
3. Make sure your vehicle is in good repair before driving long distances or during extreme winter weather.
-Extreme weather can cause your vehicle to run harder, make sure it is ready for it to avoid costly breakdowns.
4. Check all lights.
-Visibility is extremely important. Make sure all your lights are in working order so that other drivers can see you when visibility is poor.
5. Check Tires.
-Make sure you have adequate tread
-Check inflation regularly, changing temperatures can cause changes in tire pressure.
DRIVING TIPS
1. Check current and future weather conditions before leaving.
-Knowing what to expect will make for easier travels.
2. Plan alternate routes.
-Weather can change in the blink of an eye, having an alternate route planned will help avoid traffic jams caused by winter accidents.
3. Drive Slow
-Safety first, give yourself time to get where you are going.
4. Brake Gently
-Hard Braking can lead to slipping and sliding
5. Sliding
-If your rear tire slides: take your foot off of the accelerator and steer in the direction you want the front wheels to go. If your rear wheels start to slide in the other direction, ease the steering wheel in the same direction as the wheels. Repeat gently until the vehicle is under control.
-If your front tires slide: take your foot off the gas, shift to neutral, as traction returns, steer in the direction you want your vehicle to move. Put the vehicle in drive and gently accelerate.
6. Getting Un-Stuck
-Turn your wheels from side to side to push snow away from the tires. Clear snow away from the wheels and underside of the car. Was your car out with gentle acceleration. Avoid wheel spinning. If your wheels keep spinning, use kitty litter or floor mats to gain traction.
WINTER WEATHER EMERGENCY KIT FOR YOUR CAR
Keep these items in your vehicle to make sure that you are prepared for winter weather-related emergencies.
- Flares/Roadside Visibility
- Water and Energy Bars
- Blankets
- First Aid Kit
- Ice-Scraper/Snow Brush
- Jumper Cables
- Flashlight and Batteries
- Tire Pressure Checker
- Spare Windshield Washer Fluid and Wipers
- Tire Chains (If hilly/mountain driving)
- Road Salt
- Kitty Litter/Extra Floor Mats
- Small Shovel
- Extra boots, sweaters, and jackets
- Basic Tool Kit
Believe it or not, not every person in the world performs the necessary scheduled maintenance on their Ford F-150. Not performing scheduled maintenance on your truck can lead to major repair expenses resulting from neglect/inadequate maintenance. To prevent this from happening, Ford Motor Company has created a list of established regular maintenance intervals for your 2019 F-150. The recommended service schedule that Ford has created is based on two things, keeping your F-150 reliable and keeping the cost of owning your vehicle down. Keep reading to learn about the recommended services and why you should trust Bill MacDonald Ford to perform them.
WHAT TO CHECK EVERY MONTH
- Air filter restriction gauge
- Engine oil level
- The function of all interior and exterior lights
- Tires (including the spare) for wear and proper pressure
- Fuel and water separator. Drain if necessary or if indicated by the information display
- Holes and slots in the tailpipe to make sure they are functional and clear of debris
WHAT TO CHECK EVERY SIX MONTHS
- Battery connections (clean if necessary)
- Body and door drain holes for obstructions (clean if necessary)
- Cooling system fluid level and coolant strength
- Door weatherstrips for wear, lubricate if necessary.
- Hinges, latches and outside locks for proper operations (Lubricate if necessary)
- Parking brake for proper operation
- Safety belts and seat latches for wear and function
- Safety warning lamps, brake, ABS, airbag, and safety belt for operation
- Washer spray and wiper operation (clean or replace blades if necessary)
WHEN TO SCHEDULE SERVICE
The 2019 Ford F-150 comes with the Intelligent-Oil-Life Monitor system, which displays a message in the information display when your truck is ready for an oil change. When the oil change message appears, make sure that you schedule your appointment within two weeks or 500 miles. After your Ford F-150 has its oil changes, make sure to reset the Intelligent-Oil-Life Monitor. Most F-150s will show the oil change message between 7,500 and 10,000 miles for “normal use” owners. (See below for examples of normal, severe, and extreme use.) If the display of your vehicle shows the message prematurely, you should have oil changes performed at least every six months or 5,000 miles.
- Normal Use Example: Normal Commuting with highway driving. Nor, or moderate, load or towing. Flat to moderately hilly roads. No extended idling.
- Severe Use Example: Moderate to heavy load or towing mountainous or off-road conditions. Extended idling. Extended hot or cold operation.
- Extreme use Example: Maximum load or towing. Extreme hot or cold operation
When you bring your 2019 Ford F-150 to Bill MacDonald Ford for its scheduled oil change, you should also request the following services performed:
- Check/Change Filter
- Rotate tires, inspect wear and measure tread depth
- Multi-point vehicle inspection
- Check accessory drive belt/belts
- Check Battery
- Check Engine Air Filter
- Check Exhaust System
- Check Exterior Lamps
- Check and Fill Fluids
- Check Horn Operation
- Check Hoses
- Check Suspension
- Check Steering and LInkage
- Check Tires
- Check Windshield
- Check wash spray and wiper operation
- Inspect the brake pads, shoes, rotors, drums, brake linings, hoses, and parking breaks
- Inspect the engine cooling system strength and hoses
- Inspect the exhaust system and heat shields
- Inspect the front axle and U-joints. Lubricate if equipped with grease fittings
- Inspect the half-shaft boots
- Inspect the steering linkage, ball joints, suspension, tire-rod ends, driveshaft, and U-Joints. Lubricate any areas with grease fittings.
- Inspect the wheels and related components for abnormal noise, wear, looseness, or drag.
- Fuel and water separator, drain if necessary
- Refill the diesel exhaust fluid tanks (diesel trucks only)
- Inspect the air filter restriction gauge and replace it if necessary.
OTHER SCHEDULED MAINTENANCE YOUR F-150 WILL NEED
Every 20,000 Miles: Replace cabin air filter. Tire Alignment
Every 30,000 Miles: Replace engine air filter. Replace the engine-mounted and frame-mounted fuel filters.
Every 100,000 Miles: Replace spark plugs. Inspect accessory belts
Every 150,000 Miles: Change automatic transmission fluid and filter. Change front axle fluid (4WD trucks). Change rear axle fluid. Change transfer case fluid (4WD trucks). Replace fuel pump drive belt (diesel only). Replace the timing belt (diesel only).
At 200,0000 miles: Change engine coolant.
Now that you know what is needed, there is no reason your 2019 Ford F-150 should go without its recommended services. At Bill MacDonald Ford, we have factory-trained and Ford certified technicians ready to perform the necessary services on your vehicle. Our dealership also stocks Ford parts and authorized branded re-manufactured replacement parts. Authorized branded re-manufactured replacement parts are parts that meet or exceed Ford specifications. Ford and authorized branded parts installed at Bill MacDonald Ford carry a nationwide 24-month or unlimited mile parts and labor limited warranty. If you do not use our authorized parts, they may not meet our specifications and depending on the part, it could affect emissions compliance if you live in a state that monitors them.
For most, New Year’s Eve is one of those holidays where you let loose and have a few drinks, we don’t think there is anything wrong with that unless you decide to get behind the wheel. Considering you have more than one FREE option to get you home safely, no one in Saint Clair County should be driving under the influence. Keep reading for more information on the companies providing free rides on New Year’s Eve.
BLUE WATER AREA TRANSIT – SAFE RIDE PROGRAM
The Blue Water Area Transit will be providing free door-to-door transportation starting at 6 PM on New Year’s Eve until 3 AM on New Year’s Day. To use the safe ride program, call 810-987-7373 and press option 2 to request your ride. Calling in advance is not required but will make for a quicker pickup. The safe ride program will offer door-to-door transportation in the City of Port Huron, Port Huron Township, Burtchville Township, and Fort Gratiot Township.
BUDWEISER AND AAA TOW-TO-GO PROGRAM
Once again, Budweiser beer and AAA will have a tow-to-go program running on New Year’s Eve. To use the tow-to-go program, call 855-2-TOW-2-GO and a tow truck will pick you up AND tow your car home for FREE. For more information on AAA’s and Budweisers tow-to-go program click here: https://michigan.aaa.com/safety/tow_to_go.aspx
NOW AVAILABLE AT BILL MACDONALD FORD! 2020 Ford Mustang Shelby GT350 – Velocity Blue with White Vinyl Over-The-Top Stripe
(Screenshot or mention this article if you decide to purchase for a special gift only offered through online requested purchases [Ford Performance Vehicles Only])
This beautiful 2020 Ford Mustang Shelby GT350 has Velocity Blue body with an Over-The-Top White Vinyl stripe that has a thin magnetic accent and black rear spoiler. It is equipped with the 5.2L TI-VCT V8 engine and has a 6-speed manual transmission. The interior has ebony leather/suede seats (leather-trimmed sport seats). Some of the installed features on this Mustang are, but not limited to:
-Rearview Camera
-Remote Keyless Entry
-SYNC3 with an 8″ Touchscreen
-Track Apps
-Technology Package
-B&O Sound System
-BLIS with Cross-Traffic Alert
-Voice-Activated Touchscreen Navigation System
-FordPass Connect with 4G/WIFI
-Intelligent Access with Push Button Start
-Magneride Damping System
(The system monitors and adjusts itself one thousand times per second, creating a dynamic, adrenaline-fueled driving experience that will leave you breathless. The dual exhaust with electronic valves and quad tips helps maximize the awesome power of the 5.2L V8.)
No matter where you are in the United States, Bill MacDonald Ford can sell to you. Our internet manager has experience selling and delivering Ford Performance vehicles across the nation. Call 810-637-2326, text GT350 to 810-476-9023, or email Tori Flavell at torif@billmacdonaldford.com for more information.
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