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A well-maintained braking system allows you to control your speed and stop at any time. Brake components wear out over time and can become damaged by rust or hard objects thrown up from the surface, and this makes braking more difficult. As your Ford dealer, we want to tell you some signs you need to visit us for a brake repair. 3 Signs You Need a Brake Repair at Your Ford Dealer Glazed Brake Pads The brake pads produce friction when pushed against the wheel rotors and the friction slows and stops your Ford. The pads have a rough material covering that generates this friction. A glazed pad produces no friction, as its material covering has changed to a smooth, glass-like surface. Glazing occurs when a pad is kept in contact with the rotor. This can happen if you ride your brakes, or if a jammed caliper doesn't withdraw as it should when you release the brakes. Our technicians will replace any glazed pads and check your rotors for damage. If a rotor is worn, we can resurface it to turn it smooth again. Hard Brake Pedal You expect resistance when you step on the brake pedal, and this resistance is generated by the pressurized brake fluid. If you push down on the pedal and it barely moves, this is a sign that the brake pedal booster has failed. The booster is located between the brake pedal and the rest of the braking system and is designed to make braking easier. The booster uses a vacuum system to magnify the pressure exerted on the pedal by 10 x, reducing the effort necessary to force the braking system to engage. If the vacuum system has been damaged, air will enter, preventing it from supplying the power to assist braking. We'll test the booster and install a new one if the original is damaged. Grinding Noises Harsh grinding sounds from the brakes can be caused by worn brake pads or debris lodged in a caliper. The calipers are located above the wheel rotors, and a small stone or other hard object can be thrown up from the surface and stuck in a caliper. As the caliper moves when you brake, the object will grind against the caliper and potentially damage it. When a pad needs replacement, you'll hear high-pitched screeching noises when you brake. If a worn pad isn't replaced, its material covering will wear off completely. When this happens, the bare metal of the brake pad will grind against the rotor, causing damage in the process. We'll replace any worn pads and repair or replace the rotors if they've been damaged. If you suspect something is wrong with your brakes, contact our service department right away at Bill Jackson Ford in Troy, AL.

Your ignition coil is a hard-working part. It takes the small amount of voltage that you get from your battery and amplifies it to up to 40,000 volts, sending all that power to the spark plugs so it can ignite your fuel. As long as it's doing this seamlessly, you'll have no problems. But a faulty coil will show itself through some signs: when you see these, visit your Ford dealer. Three Signs of a Faulty Ignition Coil Your Car Backfires If your coil is faulty, then it will not be able to send the right voltage to the spark plugs. When that happens, some of the spark plugs don't fire. This means some unburned fuel will start to leak into the combustion chambers, and this fuel can suddenly ignite because of the heat, just when the valve is opening, creating an enormous bang. If you start hearing this kind of bang, and especially if you see black smoke coming from your exhaust, you've probably got an issue with the spark plugs or the coils. Your Gas Mileage Tanks You drive your Ford every day, so you have a good idea of how often you need to fill the tank. If you're having to fill it too much, you'll notice: and the culprit could be the coils. If fuel is going to waste and the engine is struggling, this will make a dent in your ​gas budget. You're Not Feeling the Power If the coil is not taking the charge to the spark plugs like it should and the cylinders are not firing, you're just not getting the power that your engine is capable of giving you. This means you're going to notice it gets harder to cross an intersection quickly or get up to speed on the interstate. You're Struggling To Start When a coil isn't working right, the spark plugs don't get the big surge voltage they need to start the engine. You'll notice this especially when you're trying to start a cold engine, and if it's getting hard to start the car in the morning, but the battery seems fine, a coil is likely to blame. Come See Your Ford Dealer to Diagnose a Coil Fault The average coil in an engine can last somewhere from 80,000 to 100,000 miles these days, and as you bring your Ford in for regular maintenance and service, we'll check on those coils and replace them according to the right intervals. However, there are some things that can cause a coil to fail early, so if you notice any of these signs, come see us. Come see us today at Bill Jackson Ford in Troy, AL for all your maintenance needs!

Your dashboard warning lights illuminate in response to potential issues affecting your Ford's performance or safety. Some lights refer to specific issues, like the brake light, while others refer to more general situations, like the check engine light. As your Ford dealer, we want to tell you more about some of these lights. From Your Ford Dealer: Understanding Your Dashboard Warning Lights ABS Light The ABS light looks like a circle surrounded by brackets with the letters ABS inside it. It refers to your anti-lock braking system that prevents your wheels from locking if your car gets into a skid. You can still drive with an illuminated ABS warning light, but it does make driving more dangerous until the fault is repaired. Battery Light This light looks like a line drawing of a battery. It illuminates if any problem occurs with the battery, alternator, voltage regulator, or any other part of the electrical system. Electrical system problems can result in a dead battery, starting problems, or random electrical issues. Our technicians can easily trace and repair electrical issues and this warning light will go out. Brake Warning Light Depending on your Ford model, this light appears as the word BRAKE or a circle enclosed with brackets with an exclamation point inside. It illuminates if your parking brake is still engaged or if sensors in the braking system detect a problem. Brake system issues can range from worn brake pads to a brake fluid leak. Driving with an illuminated brake light risks an accident. Coolant Temperature Light This light appears as a dipstick with three horizontal bars inserted into wavy lines. It warns that your coolant temperature is hotter than it should be. Coolant is responsible for removing heat from your engine to control the engine temperature. If this light illuminates, pull over ASAP and allow your engine to cool. Contact us right away so we can investigate and fix the problem. Engine Oil Light This light looks like an oil can with a drop of liquid falling from it. It lights up if there's a problem with your engine oil or its circulation through the engine. The oil might be old and need replacement, or the oil pump might have failed. Oil problems can cause your engine to seize up. We'll investigate and fix the problem. Powertrain Fault This warning light is only found on Ford models with a 4WD or AWD drivetrain, and it looks like a wrench. It illuminates if any fault is detected with this system. We advise against driving if this light is illuminated, as controlling your vehicle may be very difficult depending on the problem. Our technicians will find the cause of the trouble and repair it. If you have an illuminated warning light, contact our service department today at Bill Jackson Ford in Troy, AL.

It may be tempting to buy aftermarket parts for your Ford, either to save money or try for a performance bump, but such endeavors can backfire. Your vehicle is carefully designed using OEM parts that work in perfect harmony, extracting the best blend of performance and efficiency. By letting your Ford dealer service your car or truck, you can be sure only the best parts are used. Why OEM Parts Are Crucial for Your Ford's Performance Quality and Reliability OEM components are precisely engineered to meet the specifications and standards set by Ford. They're typically made by companies with substantial R&D departments and/or stringent quality-control procedures. By using original parts, you'll have confidence in their durability and reliability, knowing they are the same parts factory-fitted into your vehicle when it was new. Ford uses numerous OEMs (Original Equipment Manufacturers) to supply parts, including its in-house Motorcraft division. Aftermarket parts, not being made or fitted in cooperation with Ford, are often reverse-engineered or poorly made with cheap materials to minimize their price. They could end up costing you far more money than you initially saved, or worse. Compatibility Using original parts ensures they will integrate seamlessly with the existing systems in your Ford. This compatibility is vital for maintaining optimal performance. Aftermarket parts don't always have the same compatibility, which can lead to issues with fitment and functionality. For instance, poorly fitting parts for air intake systems (e.g., air filters, intake tubes), exhaust systems, or suspension systems can seriously harm performance. Aftermarket ECUs are often installed for performance reasons (e.g., enhanced fuel mapping or throttle response, increased power), but that can lead to compatibility issues with existing systems and adversely affect both performance and reliability. Improper tuning can also accelerate wear on engine parts and often increase emissions while reducing fuel efficiency. Safety Concerns Performance and safety are closely linked aspects of driving. Suspension affects the way a car handles, for example, in its cornering, weight distribution, and ride quality. Installing substandard or poorly fitting suspension parts could compromise the vehicle's handling, especially in an emergency when flaws are placed under strain. All parts that influence steering, handling, or the car's ability to stop must fit and work perfectly. Let Your Ford Dealer Service Your Ford A qualified technician at your local Ford center will only ever install OEM components in your vehicle. Not only does that ensure optimum performance and reliability, but it also keeps any Ford warranty valid. You can legally install an aftermarket part without voiding your warranty, the problem being it will invalidate a claim if it's the root cause of a problem. Contact Bill Jackson Ford in Troy, AL for all maintenance inquiries or to schedule your next service using genuine Ford parts.

You are probably aware that the oil is important for your car's engine, yet oil changes are no one's idea of fun. They're absolutely essential to ensure that your Ford runs reliably for as long as possible, though, and when it's time for a change, there's no better place to get it done than at your Ford dealer. Time for an Oil Change From Your Ford Dealer? Engine oil serves several vital functions in your Ford, so let's go over those to convince you why you shouldn't skip this service. First, oil lubricates the moving parts, reducing friction and preventing wear and tear as it does. It also helps keep the engine cool by dissipating heat and removing contaminants that can build up over time. Without regular oil changes, the oil becomes dirty and less effective, which can lead to increased friction, overheating, and even engine failure. Signs Your Ford Needs Fresh Oil There are several indicators that your Ford might be due for a change, so you're not just looking for one thing. One of the most obvious signs is the oil light on your dashboard, of course. Modern Fords are equipped with sensors that monitor the condition of the engine oil and will alert you when it's time for a change. Another sign to watch for is dark and dirty oil. Fresh engine oil is typically amber and translucent. As it gets used, it becomes darker because it's getting filled up with particles of dirt and debris. You can check the oil's condition by pulling out the dipstick, wiping it clean, reinserting it, and then pulling it out again to inspect the oil. Something else to watch for is a knocking or rumbling sound coming from the engine, which can indicate that the oil isn't providing adequate lubrication. Decreased fuel efficiency is another clue. If you find yourself filling up your gas tank more often than usual, it could be because the engine is working harder due to dirty or insufficient oil. How Often Should You Change the Oil? The frequency depends on the model of your Ford, your driving habits, and the type of oil you use. Generally, it's recommended to change the oil every 3,000 to 5,000 miles for conventional oil and every 7,500 to 10,000 miles for synthetic oil. However, it's best to consult your owner's manual. If you're proactive and get the oil changed out regularly, you can always be confident that your vehicle engine is protected and that your Ford is going to keep running and performing just as you expect. Come see us at Bill Jackson Ford in Troy, AL for this or any other maintenance service.

If you're in need of new tires, visiting your Ford dealer is an excellent choice to access expert service and quality products. Let's explore the importance of maintaining your tires, the signs that indicate you need new ones, and why your dealership is the best place for tire replacement. Need New Tires? Visit Your Ford Dealer Tires affect handling, braking, and the ability to grip the road in various conditions. Worn or damaged tires can lead to decreased performance, reduced fuel efficiency, and increased risk of accidents. Knowing when to replace your tires can not only prevent potential safety hazards: it can actually improve your driving experience. Signs You Need Tires Tread Wear The tread on your tires provides the necessary grip for safe driving. A simple way to check tread wear is the penny test: insert a penny into the tread with Lincoln's head facing down. If you can see the top of Lincoln's head, it's time for new wheels. Cracks and Bulges Inspect your tires for any visible cracks or bulges in the sidewalls. These can be signs of structural damage, which can lead to tire failure. Vibration If you feel unusual vibrations while driving, it could indicate uneven tire wear or other issues. It's best to have your tires inspected by a professional to determine the cause. Why Choose Your Dealership for Tire Replacement? The technicians at your dealership are trained and certified to work on Ford vehicles and understand the specific requirements of your model and can recommend the best tires to match your driving needs. We also offer a wide range of tires from reputable brands that meet the highest quality and safety standards and fit Ford vehicles like a glove. You can trust that the tires you purchase will provide optimal performance and durability. In addition to installing tires, we can also perform a full inspection of your vehicle. This includes checking the alignment, suspension, and braking systems to ensure everything is in perfect working order and you get the most from your new wheels. Plus, purchasing tires from your dealership means you get warranty coverage and support. The Tire Replacement Process When you bring your Ford to the dealership, you can expect a thorough and professional service. Our technicians will inspect your current tires and assess their condition. They will also check for any underlying issues that could affect the performance of your new ones. Based on your vehicle model, driving habits, and budget, the technicians will then recommend the best tires for your needs. They will explain the features and benefits of different options to help you make an informed decision. Once you've decided, the old tires will be removed and the new ones will be installed. The technicians will ensure that the tires are properly balanced and aligned and perform a final inspection and test drive to ensure everything is working correctly. Need some tires? Come see us at Bill Jackson Ford in Troy, AL today.

Fords are built to last, but regular maintenance is still essential to keeping your vehicle in great shape for the long haul. Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug checks, and other Ford maintenance services ensure that your vehicle runs well and safely on the road. Here's why working with your local Ford dealer to have these services performed is so important. Importance of Regular Ford Maintenance From Your Ford Dealer It Extends the Life of Your Vehicle Routine maintenance extends the life of the major components of your vehicle as well as the vehicle itself. Small mechanical issues will be addressed early, and everything on the vehicle will last longer. This means you'll spend less money on major repairs, and you'll be able to look forward to enjoying your vehicle for years to come. Having a well-maintained vehicle puts you in a great position. It Gives You the Best Performance Possible Keeping the fluids in your vehicle topped off, regularly changing the oil, and staying on top of other preventative maintenance checks guarantees the best possible performance by your Ford. It also ensures that your vehicle is operating efficiently and that you're not wasting fuel. It Minimizes the Risk of Unexpected Breakdowns There's nothing more frustrating or dangerous than being stranded on the side of the road by an unexpected breakdown. By proactively adhering to a schedule of regular vehicle maintenance, you'll minimize breakdowns because you'll be addressing potential issues before they become big problems. Having service performed at our dealership is a lot easier and more convenient than dealing with a maintenance issue on the side of the road. It Helps Build a Complete Vehicle Maintenance Record Consistently coming to our dealership for service is a great way of documenting your vehicle's complete service history. Each time you come, we'll make a note of the service performed. The records we keep on your car will help us make recommendations about needed services. And if you eventually decide to sell the vehicle, you'll have a complete maintenance history to share with potential buyers. It Means You're Getting Top-Notch Service When you bring your Ford in for service at our dealership, your vehicle will be in the hands of one of our factory-trained technicians. Our technicians are highly qualified, undergo continuous education, and know everything there is to know about Ford models. You can rest assured that your vehicle will receive expert service. If you love your Ford and want to keep it on the road long-term, commit to a schedule of regular maintenance at our dealership. Doing so ensures that you'll get the best performance out of your vehicle, and you'll save money in the process. When you're ready to schedule your next service appointment, give us a call at Bill Jackson Ford in Troy, AL.