It’s finally raining again in our town after an eternity of drought! Though this is excellent news for the environment, it can be tricky to drive in the rain. You must know a few things before heading out if you have never gone in the shower.
That’s why your trusted car dealership Mike Patton Ford Lincoln has compiled some tips on staying safe while driving in the rain. Keep reading for the advice!
Regular Car Service
Driving in the rain gets risky if you’re not prepared. Make sure you regularly service your car from a reliable auto dealership. We’ll be able to check that your tires have enough tread, that your windshield wipers are in good condition, that your brakes are safe, and that your headlights are shining bright. These things are crucial for being able to see and be seen.
1. Windshield Wipers
Your windshield wipers provide your first line of defense against the rain. Check your condition before you start driving. Otherwise, you might not see where you’re going. As a rule of thumb, replace your windshield wipers at least once a year. And if they’re streaking or leaving smears on your windshield, it’s time for new ones. You can usually do this or ask a professional at your nearest car dealership.
2. Tires
Next, check your tires. Driving in the rain can be slippery, so it’s essential to make sure your tires have enough tread. It will help you maintain traction and avoid hydroplaning. Not sure how to check your tread depth? Take your car to a dedicated auto dealership – such as ours!
3. Head & Fog Lights
It’s also essential to ensure your car’s lights are in good working order. It is especially true if you’re driving in heavy rain or fog and its dusk or night. You need to be able to see, and you need other drivers to be able to see you. If your headlights are dim, it’s time for new bulbs.
And if your taillights are burned out, replace them as soon as possible. Driving without functioning taillights is against the law in most states.
4. Brakes
Your brakes are another critical safety feature. Wet brakes, slippery roads, and worn brake pads can take longer to stop your car, so give yourself extra time to brake. Do ensure your brake pads are functional before you hit the road.
5. Defroster
You’ll also want to ensure your defroster is in good working order before heading out into the rain. Of course, this is more practical in winters for sleet, but you can never be too careful!
6. Engine Temperature
Water getting into your car’s silencer can heat up and create steam, which can cause your engine to overheat. You would be wise to avoid taking your car into a flooded section of the road and instead go over to a trusted auto dealership in Corinth, GA – namely us!
Ending Note
So, whether you’re a toughened gearhead or a greener, remember these tips the next time you hit the road in bad weather. And don’t forget, if you’re not comfortable driving in the rain and need some help getting your car serviced before it starts raining again, our experienced team at Mike Patton Ford Lincoln, serving Corinth, GA team would be more than happy to assist.
Thanks for reading!
Crazy as it might seem, some people don’t replace the air filter in their cars. It’s a small part that can easily be forgotten, and it doesn’t seem like it would make that much of a difference, right? Wrong. In fact, not replacing your car’s air filter can lead to all sorts of problems, from decreased fuel efficiency to impaired performance. So, if you keep putting off replacing the air filter, this post is for you.
Read on to find out just how bad things can get if you don’t change your engine air filter regularly.
Reduced Engine Performance:
Car engines require uncontaminated oil and clean air filters to perform at their best. When an engine air filter becomes clogged, it can restrict airflow and cause the engine to run less efficiently. Your car might have trouble accelerating, and you may notice a decrease in power. Over time, it can lead to engine damage. And that is an expensive car repair that affects the resale value of your vehicle.
Increased Fuel Consumption:
The increasing gas prices are putting a strain on our wallets. And if that gets topped off with increased fuel consumption due to a dirty air filter, we’ll not be happy campers. When a dirty air filter restricts airflow, the car’s engine has to work harder. It causes the engine to use more fuel. So, your next road trip might be more expensive than you planned.
A Dirty Air Filter and the Environment:
Studies reveal that 27% of greenhouse gases come from vehicle tailpipes. So, anything we can do to minimize our car’s emissions is good for the environment. Unfortunately, a dirty air filter can cause up to a 10% increase in fuel consumption and emissions. You might also observe impaired car performance and an increase in engine wear.
Bad for Your Health:
Most of us roll up the windows when a big rig comes barreling down the highway, but we don’t think twice about the air we’re breathing when we’re stuck in traffic. A clogged engine air filter fails to filter the contaminants like mold spores and dust particles that can cause respiratory problems. If you have allergies, a dirty air filter can worsen your symptoms.
When Should You Replace Your Air Filter?
Most carmakers recommend replacing your engine air filter at least once a year or every 12,000 miles, whichever comes first. However, that’s not set in stone. You might be able to go a little longer between replacements if you live in a rural area and do most of your driving on the highway. Conversely, if you live in a dusty, dirty area or do a lot of stop-and-go driving in the city, you might have to replace your air filter more often.
Conclusion:
The bad news is that it can get nasty if you don’t replace your car’s air filter. The good news is that Mike Patton Ford, serving Glenn, GA, can help you with that.
We know how important it is for your car to breathe clean air, and our team of experts will make sure your vehicle’s filters are up-to-date and doing their job correctly. Schedule a service today!
You probably think that your old car has seen its last days. It’s been making weird noises for a while now, and it seems to worsen daily. You’re not sure if it’ll make it to your next destination. But before you buy a new car or look into new cars for sale in Antioch, GA, there are a couple of things to check about your old one.
1) Your Car Looks Old and Dated
One thing you’ll notice when your car starts to show its age is that it looks old and dated. The paint may be faded, the interior may be starting to look worn, and the overall appearance may be less than impressive. If you’re looking at a new car, it’s important to consider how your current car looks in comparison. Suppose it looks significantly worse than the new car. In that case, it’s probably time to visit car-selling websites or an online auto dealership to examine new cars for sale in Antioch, GA.
2) You Have More and More Mechanical Issues
Another clear sign is if you’re having more and more mechanical issues. If you find yourself taking your car into the shop more often or if you have to pay for more and more repairs, it’s probably time to start checking out new cars for sale. Not only is this costing you money in the short term, but it’s also an indication that your vehicle is on its last legs and won’t be able to last much longer. It’s vital to weigh the cost of repairs against the cost of a new car to see which makes more financial sense.
3) You Are Getting Awful Gas Mileage
If you’re driving an older car, it’s normal to expect that your gas mileage isn’t as good as it was when the car was new. However, suppose you’re finding that you have to fill up your tank more often than you used to or that your gas mileage has decreased significantly. In that case, this could be a sign that your vehicle is not as efficient as it once was.
There could be various causes for this decrease in gas mileage, such as dirty spark plugs, a clogged air filter, or low tire pressure. However, if you’ve ruled out all of these potential causes and your gas mileage is still poor, your car’s engine is likely no longer running as efficiently as it should be. This decrease in efficiency can be caused by many things, such as worn-out piston rings or valves, and will ultimately lead to your car consuming more fuel than it should. If that’s the case, it’s time to buy a new car.
4) There is Damage to the Frame or Suspension System
One of the most important parts of your car is its frame or suspension system. This system is responsible for supporting the car’s weight and absorbing any impact from bumps in the road. Over time, however, this system can become damaged or weakened. If you notice that your car is sagging on one side or that it’s not smooth like before, then it’s likely that the frame or suspension system has been damaged. Therefore, buying a new car is best rather than trying to repair the existing one.
Suppose you’re looking for a trustworthy Ford dealership. In that case, Mike Patton Ford Lincoln, a reputable auto dealership in Antioch, GA, is the place to go. Our expert staff will ensure you find the perfect Ford, and our competitive pricing means you’ll get an unbeatable deal on your new car.
Plus, we offer various financing options to make buying your new car easy and affordable. Visit us today and see why we’re the best Ford dealership. Buy a New Ford Today!
5 Signs Your Radiator Is Not Going To Last Long!
A bad or failing radiator not only means an unexpected and costly car repair bill but could also leave you stranded on the road while driving. The main job of your car radiator is to take care of your car’s cooling system and help to keep the engine at a stable temperature. When the radiator fails, it can cause the engine to overheat, leading to severe engine damage and – you guessed it – more money down the drain.
Luckily, spotting a failing radiator is not a difficult thing anymore. With these five signs of Mike Patton Ford Lincoln, you will know it’s time for radiator repairs.
1. The car is overheating
This one’s pretty obvious. If your car’s engine is running hot and blowing smoke, it’s a sign that the radiator isn’t doing its job correctly. Check the temperature gauge on your car’s dash to see if it’s higher than usual. If the needle is red, pull over as soon as possible and turn off the engine.
2. The car is leaking coolant
If you notice a pool of bright green liquid underneath your car, it’s probably coolant. Check the coolant level in the radiator and look for any cracks or leaks in the radiator hoses. If the radiator leak is severe, you’ll need to take your car to a mechanic to have it repaired or replaced.
3. The car’s engine is overworking
If the car’s engine is revving more than it usually should or making strange noises, it could work overtime to compensate for the radiator’s poor performance. This will put extra strain on the engine and could lead to more severe problems down the road.
4. The car is losing power
If your car feels like it’s struggling to maintain speed or keep up with traffic, it could be a sign of the radiator not functioning correctly. A failing radiator can cause the car to lose power and performance because it cannot adequately cool the engine. You may want to take it for radiator repairs.
5. The car has an overheating warning light
Many vehicles have a warning light that turns on when the vehicle overheats. It means there is a problem with the car’s cooling system, and you should take it to a certified mechanic to get it checked in case you have a failing radiator.
Conclusion:
These five tips will help you diagnose if you have a failing radiator. You can now take your car to a nearby car radiator repair shop for further diagnosis and restorations. However, if your vehicle is still under warranty, you may want to bring it to the dealership for repairs.
Regarding trusted dealerships, your best bet is Mike Patton Ford Lincoln, serving Abbotsford, GA. Our technicians are highly trained and certified to work on all Ford makes and models. We also offer a wide range of Ford and Lincoln services, including radiator repair.
Schedule an appointment today!
To some, buying an automatic car is like learning a new language. All of a sudden, all these different letters and numbers are thrown around, with no explanation as to what they mean. If this is you, don’t worry – we’re here to help!
In this blog post, Mike Patton Ford Lincoln will explain all the different automatic car gear letters and symbols so you can make an informed decision for your next vehicle.
P – Park
The “P” on your gear shift means Park and should be used whenever you’re stopped and getting in or out of the car. If you face confusion regarding when to use Park, here are a few general guidelines:
- If you’re stopped and need to get out of the car, put it in Park.
- When you’re parallel parking, once you’ve finished parking and are getting out of the car, put it in Park.
- If you’re at a stop light or stop sign, and the car is not moving, put it in Park.
R – Reverse
As you might have guessed, the “R” on your gear shift means Reverse. You should use Reverse whenever you need to back up, such as when backing out of a parking spot or driveway. Make sure to navigate your surroundings before pushing the pedal.
N – Neutral
Neutral is a bit of a safe zone for your car. If you need to let your car rest while it’s still running, put it in Neutral. This prevents your vehicle from moving even if you accidentally hit the gas pedal. You should also put your car in Neutral when you’re stopped on a steep hill and are using the parking brake.
D – Drive
Drive is the most commonly used gear, and it means go! When you’re ready to move forward, put your car in Drive and start going. Remember not to rush and take it slow until you get a feel for how the vehicle is responding. If you are buying an automatic car for the first time, be steady on the gas pedal as you let go of the breaks.
3 – Third Gear
Third gear is what you’ll use most of the time when you’re driving. It’s a happy medium between first and second gear, and it will help your car conserve fuel while still going at a good speed.
2 – Second Gear
Second gear is a bit slower than third gear, but it’s still a good speed for most driving situations. You’ll probably use second gear when going up a hill or passing another car on the highway.
1 – First Gear
The first gear is the slowest but also the most powerful. You’ll only use first gear when you’re starting from a stop or going very slowly (like driving in a parking lot).
Conclusion:
Now you must know all those automatic car gear letters and symbols. If you plan on buying an automatic car, Mike Patton Ford Lincoln, serving Luthersville, GA, can be your savior. We have a wide range of new and used automatic Ford models, and our experts will guide you in choosing the best Ford per your requirements.
Contact us today!
Can public transport ever really compete with the private car when it comes to comfort and convenience? Despite the ubiquity of cars on our roads, many people still rely on public transport to get around.
Mike Patton Ford Lincoln brings you the top five and coolest reasons why public transport can never compete with the luxury and comfort of a private car.
The High Tech in Cars is Flourishing
Cars these days are becoming more high-tech. With features like Ford’s SYNC 3, you can control your car’s entertainment system, navigation, and climate control, all with the sound of your voice. You can even use SYNC 3 to find nearby gas stations or restaurants and make hands-free calls.
Imagine doing any of this in public transport. Impossible, right?
You Get to Customize Your Car
From the rim size to the type of upholstery, you can change everything about your car to make it more comfortable. You can add a personal touch by installing a new stereo system or adding some unique exterior features.
In public transport, you’re stuck with whatever the system gives you. Good luck changing that!
You Car Put On Your Favorite Audio
Command Siri or Assistant to play your favorite music or Bluetooth to connect your phone to the speakers. You can even listen to songs, audiobooks, or podcasts on your way to work.
In public transport, you’re at the mercy of whatever the other passengers are listening to. And we all know how disagreeable some people’s taste in music can be. Do you like Jazz or Country? You can do all that in your car!
You’re In Control Of The Temperature
Under the scalding sun, the last thing you want is to be stuck on a bus or train with no air conditioning. With your own car, you can blast the air conditioning as much as possible to stay cool and comfortable.
Traveling on a bus or train can be uncomfortable, especially during hot weather. You’re at the mercy of the other passengers when it comes to the temperature.
There Are No Limitations On Your Stops
When driving, you can make as many stops as you want. Whether you need to pick up something from the store or stop for a coffee, it’s no problem. Contrarily, public transport can be quite inflexible where you are restricted to specific stops and have to follow a strict schedule.
Seriously! There are an insane number of instances where appointments have been missed because the transit couldn’t wait a minute more. At least by having your own car, you can be late but reach your appointments with dignity.
If you’re looking for a brand new vehicle in Grantville, GA, you should definitely check out Mike Patton Ford Lincoln. We have an extensive range of Ford models to choose from, so you’re sure to find one that suits your needs.
Whether you need a new Ford or are looking for a pre-owned vehicle, we can help you out. Plus, our team is always on hand to answer any questions you might have.
Contact us today for more info!
Do you hate cleaning your car windows every time they fog up? Well, no more! In this blog post, Mike Patton Ford Lincoln will share some genius hacks that will help you avoid foggy car windows. Whether you are a recent car owner or have been driving for years, these hacks will come in handy. Keep reading to learn more!
1. Kitty Litter In A Sock:
Cat litter, particularly silica – or “crystal” litter – is extremely absorbent and will take moisture from the warm air. It’s simple: grab a sock and stuff it with kitty litter. Ta-da! However, stretch the sock over a roll of tape or a cooking egg ring because this might be messy. Tie it off and hang it on your car’s dashboard after it’s filled.
2. Get Some Shaving Foam:
Take your father’s. Make use of your own. Borrow from your next-door neighbor. Shaving foam acts as an anti-fog layer, which is strange but real.
Using a cloth, apply a little quantity to the interior of a clean windscreen. Spread it on the windscreen thinly and evenly, sparingly, so that the windscreen remains clear. This tiny foam coating will perform exactly as effectively as anti-fog sprays sold over the counter.
3. Make Your Defogging Solution:
Combine one cup of boiling water, two teaspoons of vinegar, and ten drops of essential oil in a mixing bowl. When the mixture has cooled, pour it into a spray bottle and store it in your car. Always use a lint-free cloth, such as a microfibre, for wiping. Your car will also smell fantastic!
4. Use Baby Powder:
One hack you can use is keeping a small container of baby powder in your car. When your windows start to fog up, sprinkle some baby powder on the inside of the glass and wipe it off with a clean cloth. This will help absorb moisture in the air and prevent your windows from fogging.
More Fog-Removal Tips!
It will be a misty day when the time comes. You won’t have any DIY hacks with spray, kitty litter, or shaving cream left. You may still need to use your air vents and air conditioner.
The most effective methods are as follows:
· Turn on the air conditioner:
Since it helps dry the surface, this is useful for eliminating condensation from the windows.
Removing moisture from inside the car is better as moisture condenses and generates fog inside windshields.
· Maintain the cleanliness of the windows:
In addition to cleaning, ensure your automobile is in good working order. If your automobile has a regenerative engine, you may need to turn off the defroster to prevent the inside from becoming too hot or cold. This will prevent condensation from accumulating, which might lead to a dangerous driving situation.
Open the windows and direct all vents toward the windscreen and windows to exchange some damp, warm interior air for the dryer, colder air outside.
Bring your car to Mike Patton Ford Lincoln, serving Oak Grove, GA, for service. And while our ASE-certified technicians tend to your car, you can browse our showcase of new & pre-owned vehicles!
5 Easy Ways To Buff-Out Scratches From A Car
It’s happened to all of us – we’re driving along and notice a scratch on our car. Whether it’s from a door that was carelessly closed or a key that was scraped across the paint, those scratches can be unsightly and annoying. But don’t worry – there are easy ways to remove them!
In this blog post, Mike Patton Ford Lincoln will discuss some of the best methods for getting rid of scratches on your car. Stay tuned for more information!
Car Scratches – How They Happen?
Well, honestly, car scratches can happen in several ways. As we said before, they could come from someone closing a door too hard or scraping a key along the side of your car. But there are other ways that scratches can appear, such as:
- Paint transfer – happens when another car’s paint rubs off onto your car, usually in a parking lot.
- Birds – those pesky birds can actually cause serious damage to your car’s paint job! If you’ve ever had a bird drop something on your car, chances are it left a scratch.
- Tree sap – if you park under a tree, the sap can fall and land on your car, causing scratches.
- Dirt and debris – driving on dirty or unpaved roads can fling rocks and other debris at your car, causing scratches.
How To Fix Them?
So, now that you know how scratches can happen, what can you do about them? If you have a small scratch, there are a few things you can try at home to remove it. But if the scratch is deep or extensive, you’ll probably need to take your car to a professional.
Here are some home remedies for removing scratches from your car:
- Toothpaste – yes, that’s right! Toothpaste can actually remove minor scratches from your car’s paint job. Just put a tiny amount of white toothpaste on the affected area and rub it with a soft cloth. Then, wash it away with water and dry the area.
- Baking soda – It is another common household item that can be used to remove scratches from your car. Just make a paste from baking soda and water, and then apply it to the scratch. Rub it in gently, then rinse it off and dry the area.
- Wax – if you have some car wax on hand, you can use it to help fill in and camouflage a scratch. Just apply a tiny or small amount of wax to the area and rub it in until the scratch is no longer visible.
- Vinegar – can also be used to remove scratches from your car’s paint job. Just mix equal parts vinegar and water, and then apply it to the scratch with a soft cloth. Rub it in gently, then rinse it off and dry the area.
- Nail polish – believe it or not, nail polish can be used to cover up a scratch on your car. Just find a shade of nail polish that closely matches your car’s paint job, and then apply it to the scratch with a small brush. Let it dry, and then add another coat if necessary.
Mike Patton Ford Lincoln, serving Hillcrest, GA, is proud to be an automotive leader in our area. Whether you are darting for a new or used vehicle, we are here to help. Our team of gearheads will walk you through the entire process, from finding the right car for you to financing and service.
We even offer test drives! Visit us today and check out what we can do for you.
When you go to a dealership to purchase a car, the salesperson will usually offer you a test drive. It’s essential to make the most of this opportunity because it’s your chance to see if the car is right for you. You can discover a lot about a vehicle and its features with the help of a test drive. This blog post will identify some excellent test driving tips that will help you get the most out of your test drive.
When it comes to buying a new and used Ford, Mike Patton Ford Lincoln, serving Mountville, is one of the best dealerships in the area. We offer the best prices and quality cars. Do visit us if you’re planning to buy a Ford.
Do Some Research
The test drive is not the time to test out your navigation skills. You should already have a good idea of where you’re going and how to get there before stepping foot in the car. This will allow you to focus on the vehicle itself rather than trying to figure out where you’re going.
Plan Your Route
Your test drive route should be planned so that you can test out all of the features of the car. It means that you’ll want to find a course with various road surfaces and conditions. You should also make sure to include stop-and-go traffic and some open highway driving.
Take Your Time
A test drive might feel rushed, but this is a mistake. Let yourself get a feel for the car during this test drive. Go at different speeds and pay attention to how the car responds.
Pay Attention to The Details
In addition to paying attention to the big picture, it’s also essential to pay attention to the small details. It includes things like the quality of the upholstery, the legroom, and even the little things like the cup holders.
Test All Car Features
Be sure to test all of the car’s features, including the audio system, the navigation system, and any other bells and whistles. It will help you get a feel for how user-friendly the car is.
Have Realistic Expectations
Keep in mind that no car is perfect. So even if you find a few minor flaws, don’t let them dissuade you from considering the car as a whole. Just remember to weigh all of the pros and cons before making your decision.
Test drives are the perfect opportunity to get a feel for a car before buying it. So, whether you’re looking for a new or used car, Mike Patton Ford Lincoln, serving Mountville, GA, is the place to go for your test drive. We have an extensive inventory of new and used cars, and our team will work with you to find the perfect car for your needs.
New Technologies Heading To Your Car Soon
What’s new in the world of cars? It seems as if there is a new development in automotive technology every day. Cars are becoming more and more high-tech, with features like self-parking and lane departure warning systems. With the advancement of the tech industry and automation, we can predict that this progress only goes upward. Soon, even more, advanced features will be making their way into cars.
At Mike Patton Ford Lincoln, serving Loan Oak, GA, we present to you some of the new car technologies heading to your vehicle in this blog post.
Self-Parking
In the past, parking your car was an entirely manual process. However, new car technologies are changing the way we park, with more and more vehicles now featuring self-parking capabilities. It is not only convenient, but it can also help to prevent accidents by ensuring that your car is parked in a safe and designated location.
While self-parking may seem like a small innovation, it quickly becomes mainstream as drivers demand new features that make their lives easier. With self-parking, you can rest assured that your car will be parked perfectly every time, freeing you to focus on other tasks.
Lane departure warning systems
Though it’s natural to think that it could never happen to you, drowsy driving is a leading cause of accidents, and even the most experienced drivers can find themselves struggling to stay awake on long trips. That’s where lane departure warning systems come in.
These automated new car technologies are dependent on sensors to monitor a vehicle’s position on the road. These automated new car technologies provide an audible or visual alert if the driver begins to drift out of their lane.
Comprehensive Vehicle Tracking
The latest car tech is all about satellite connectivity, and it’s changing the way we think about vehicles. Comprehensive vehicle tracking is the newest innovation within car technology, and it has the potential to revolutionize the way we drive.
This system uses satellite technology to track a vehicle’s location, speed, and other data in real-time. The system then transmits this information to a central server, where authorized users can access it. This system has several potential applications, including fleet management, stolen vehicle recovery, and accident reconstruction.
The future is here, and with it comes a whole new range of car technologies destined to change how we see cars. At Mike Patton Ford Lincoln, serving Loan Oak, GA, we’re always on the lookout for the latest and greatest innovations in the automotive world to bring to our customers.
If you’re looking to upgrade your ride with some of the newest technology, our team is more than happy to assist you. So don’t hesitate – to make an appointment today or check out our new vehicles inventory online. We can’t wait to help you take your driving experience to the next level!
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