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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!

If you want to take your driving experience to the next level, the 2024 Ford Explorer is the ideal vehicle to get you there. With a powerful build, top technological features, and a comfortable and well-appointed cabin that will keep up to seven people riding in absolute style, it's one of the best vehicles in its class. Once you test-drive one, you'll completely understand what all of the buzz is about. 3 Innovating Features of the 2024 Ford Explorer 1. Roomy and Totally Modern Interior This vehicle has plenty of space for up to seven people and offers over 40 inches of headroom in both the front and second rows and a full 39 inches of legroom in the second row, so you and your passengers can spread out and get comfortable. Inside, you'll find modern amenities like a top-notch air filtration system and tri-zone electronic automatic temperature control so that everyone can opt for the climate that's best for them. Plus, you'll always stay connected with five powerpoints throughout the vehicle for rapid device charging, and drivers will love that they can reconfigure the driver's seat eight different ways for a personalized experience. Everything is set up expressly to optimize the driver and passenger experience, all while delivering the power you need to explore to your heart's content. 2. Fantastic Entertainment System Perfect for Road Trips No matter how long the journey ahead is, you'll always have something great to tune into when you're cruising in this vehicle. It's completely Android Auto, SiriusXM, and Apple CarPlay compatible, and you can enjoy all of it with pristine sound over the 14-speaker B&O Sound System by Bang and Olufsen. These vehicles also come with a 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot to stay connected everywhere. 3. Powerful Build and Performance This vehicle will certainly never let you down regarding apex performance and handling. The 2.3L EcoBoost 1-4 engine can help you master the backroads, and a ten-speed automatic transmission allows you to customize your driving experience fully. Plus, these rides come with all-season BSW tires, automatic LED low-beam headlights, and LED tail lights, which can keep you visible and aware of your surroundings, even on the darkest roads. This vehicle surely ticks off all of the boxes, with unmatched style, built and performance. It's also one of the most technologically sound models available on the market, with a host of different entertainment options and a fast Wi-Fi connection that allows you and your passengers to stay online when you're off the grid. See why this vehicle is the best in its class by a mile. Stop by Bill Jackson Ford in Troy, AL, and take one of these rides for a spin today.

When you need super-duty power to haul loads or pull trailers, you can't go wrong with a Super Duty truck like the 2024 Ford F-350 SD. Trim Levels of the 2024 Ford F-350 SD XL Perfect for those seeking an affordable heavy-duty truck, the XL trim suits most purposes. Under the hood, a 6.8L V8 gas engine boasts 405 horsepower and 445 lb-ft of torque for superb handling on all surfaces and a conventional towing capacity of up to 18,700 lbs. This model comes with a TorqShift-G 10-speed automatic transmission with selectable drive modes for enhanced performance based on your driving style or road conditions. XLT An upgraded powertrain boosts the XLT's performance to 430 horsepower and 485 lb-ft of torque for improved capability when hauling off the road. Standard 120-volt outlets on the dashboard and at the rear side of the flow-through console boost convenience, making it possible to fire up tools in areas with no electricity access. LARIAT The LARIAT trim blends power with luxury and comes with a wealth of features designed for easy trailering. For instance, the PowerScope trailer tow mirrors reduce blind spots and pair with Ford's BLIS system with cross-traffic alerts and trailer coverage for enhanced safety when pulling large trailers. Inside, advanced tech features include a premium B&O audio system. King Ranch With its Kingsville Antique Affect interior, the King Ranch offers a unique style to match the model's robust durability. It also brings upgraded technologies and a wealth of convenience features, including a Pro Power Onboard panel so you can power your equipment even when there is no outlet to be found. A 360-degree view camera also comes standard for safer maneuvering. Platinum Unique styling makes the Platinum trim a perfect choice for urban driving. Like the King Ranch, this model comes with Multicontour seats for customized comfort and can be had with exclusive leather seating surfaces for an enhanced luxury feel. Another highlight is the power tailgate with a built-in camera that lets you see what happens behind the truck when the tailgate is down. Limited This trim's main highlight is the 6.7L High Output Power Stroke V8 turbo diesel engine that delivers 500 horsepower and 1,200 lb-ft of torque. This kind of muscle boosts the conventional towing capacity to a whopping 27,000 lbs, but the model can pull up to 32,900 lbs when equipped for 5th-wheel or gooseneck towing. Additional interior and performance upgrades set the Limited in a league of its own. When you need to haul heavy loads or pull a behemoth of a trailer, the Ford F-350 SD can handle all the tasks. Visit us today at Bill Jackson Ford in Troy, AL to explore our inventory and take your favorite trim for a ride.

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.

When you need a safe, reliable vehicle that fits your family and their luggage for all your on-road adventures, the 2024 Ford Escape should be on your list. It has the power to deliver you to your destination quickly, and the interior features keep everyone comfortable and entertained along the way. Why the 2024 Ford Escape Is Perfect for Your Next Adventure Basics About the 2024 Escape The 2024 Ford Escape is a small SUV that seats up to five people and features front-wheel drive, a 1.5-liter turbocharged 3-cylinder engine, and an 8-speed automatic transmission, providing all the power and control you need to get around. The previous year's base trim has been removed from the lineup, leaving the Active trim as the new base model, and the ST-Line and Platinum round out the higher trim levels. The base Ford Escape's fuel economy is one of the highest for a vehicle of its size, with a combined rating of 30mpg. If your road trips bring you into less certain territory or weather conditions, all-wheel drive is available, and the turbo engine can be upgraded to a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder if you need extra speed and power. Family-Friendly Interior The stylish, spacious interior offers comfort and versatility for all your passengers. Up front, you'll enjoy the unique cloth bucket seats with an 8-way power adjustment for the driver and a 4-way manual adjustment for your copilot. The cloth rear 60/40 split bench seat can be manually folded down when you need more room for luggage and fewer passengers. If you prefer the look and feel of leather over cloth, the Platinum model comes standard with faux leather seating. With FordPass Connect and the FordPass app, you can control and schedule the remote start, lock and unlock, and locate your parked vehicle from just about anywhere. Front and rear map lights let your passengers read and play games on evening drives without distracting the driver, and two 12V DC power outlets ensure everyone's devices can stay charged. Cargo and Towing Capacity The 2024 Ford Escape has plenty of storage space, including a full floor console with covered storage, a mini overhead console, a seatback storage pocket, and door bins for the driver and all passengers. With the rear seats folded down, you'll have 68.5 inches of cargo space and 37.8 inches when all seats are occupied. If you need to haul more than can fit inside, the Escape offers a maximum towing capacity of 2,000 pounds. Ready to see why the 2024 Ford Escape should be on your list for your next family vehicle? Contact or visit Bill Jackson Ford in Troy, AL to set up your test drive, and we'll be happy to help you find the adventure-ready car with all the features you need for a smooth journey.

For the 47th year in a row, the 2024 Ford F-250 SD (Super Duty) truck is among the best-selling family of trucks. It has been recognized for its elevated design, outstanding capability, and long-term reliability. The F-250 SD is an exceptional choice for hauling, towing, and off-road driving. Trim Levels of the 2024 Ford F-250 SD The Basics Basic features are standard for all Ford F-250 SD trucks, regardless of trim level. You can choose from five different gas or diesel engines, which are teamed with the powerfully built TorqShift 10-speed automatic transmission. It has ABS and a coil spring suspension with heavy-duty gas shock absorbers. It has a 4-wheel drive system with shift-on-the-fly capability. The headlamps are AutoLamps that turn on at twilight and when the wipers are engaged. It has integrated box side steps for easy box access. It is outfitted with telescoping tow mirrors. It has a 40/20/40 bench seat and three cab sizes to choose from, with second-row seats that flip up or fold flat. Technology Features The Ford Co-Pilot 360 technologies are driver assistance systems such as Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking, Forward Collision Warning, and a rearview camera. For trailering safety, there is Trailer Sway Control and Hill Start Assist. The Infotainment System is accessed through an 8-inch touchscreen. XL Trim The XL has a 6.8L V8 gas engine. It is equipped with AdvanceTrac with Roll Stability Control and Trailer Brake Controller. The available XL Off-Road package provides steel skid plates and water-fording vent tubes. XLT Trim The XLT has a 7.3L V8 engine and Auto High Beams. The available Pro Trailer Hitch Assist and Pro Trailer Backup Assist eliminate the need for a spotter when hooking up a trailer. LARIAT Trim The LARIAT has leather-trimmed seats, Powerscope trailer tow mirrors, a 12-inch touchscreen, and a 360-degree camera package. The available turn signal camera view comes up on the touchscreen whenever you engage your turn signal. King Ranch Trim The King Ranch has a Kingsville Antique leather interior. It has a B&O Sound System HD radio with 14 speakers. It has OnBoard Scales paired with Smart Hitch technology that weighs the trailer as it is lowered on the hitch. Platinum Trim The Platinum is a trim level with all the bells and whistles. It has power deployable running boards, LED projector headlamps that can sense objects out of the light's range and warn you, and a Head-Up display. Limited Trim The Limited is loaded with features. It has a 6.7L high-output Power Stroke V8 Turbo diesel engine with diesel engine exhaust braking, which provides greater control when traveling downhill while trailering a heavy load. Have you decided which Ford F-250 SD trim level is right for you? Schedule a test drive at Bill Jackson Ford in Troy, AL, today and find out.

​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​The battery is essential to provide the power that starts your Ford's engine. As time passes, a battery will weaken or become damaged and need replacement. As your Ford dealer, we want you to know a few signs you need to visit us for a new car battery. 3 Signs You Need a New Car Battery From Your Ford Dealer Slow Cranking A slow crank is one of the most common signs of a weakening battery. When you hit the start button, the battery sends a large electrical charge to the starter, which cranks the engine, and your Ford's cylinders will begin firing within seconds. If this doesn't happen, and you hear the laboring sound of an engine struggling to crank, your battery could be failing. A battery could fall due to age, recharging issues, or loose wiring. An older battery loses most of its storage capacity, which makes starting difficult, while a weak alternator might not supply enough power to recharge an otherwise healthy battery. Loose cables or wires can restrict the flow of power into and out of the battery and restrict the power supply to the starter. We'll examine your engine, identify the problem, and repair it. Overcharging As we've seen, a battery uses a large portion of its stored electricity reserve to start the engine. Once the engine is running, the alternator begins to spin and generate electricity for your car's systems. It also recharges the battery, charging at full power for ten minutes then switching to a reduced 10% charging until the battery is replenished. The reduced charging level protects the alternator and the battery from damage. The switchover to reduce charging occurs when the battery signals it received the initial charge. A damaged alternator might ignore this signal and continue to charge at full power. Overcharging will cause the battery's electrolyte solution to boil. Our technicians will test your alternator and install a new one if necessary. Swollen Battery A battery contains sulfuric acid, copper plates, an electrolyte solution, and other chemicals. The battery contents are contained within a thick plastic casing that protects them from damage. Almost all battery casings are rectangular with straight, flat sides. If you examine your battery and notice bulges or distortions in the casing, your battery is failing. The swelling is caused by a build-up of hydrogen gas caused by the natural breakdown of sulfuric acid or an expansion of the electrolyte solution due to sustained low temperatures. This increases pressure inside the casing and forces the battery walls outward. A swollen battery can't be repaired, but we will replace your battery to fix this issue. Battery problems develop over time, and there are usually multiple warning signs that something is wrong. Visit us today at Bill Jackson Ford in Troy, AL.

We're big fans of the 2024 Ford Edge. This SUV has an interior that feels as spacious as it truly is, comfortable seating, and great fuel economy. Take a look at our highlights below to learn more about this outstanding SUV. 6 Reasons to Love the 2024 Ford Edge 1. The Comfortable Seating We love the well-padded reclining front bucket seats in the new Ford Edge. The comfortable second-row reclining bench seat comes with a fold-down armrest. Your taller passengers will enjoy the 40.6 inches of second-row legroom. 2. The Space for Luggage The Ford Edge's design prioritizes comfort and spaciousness, and these themes continue into the cargo area, where you'll have 39.2 cubic feet of volume behind the second-row seats. Modern LED lights illuminate the cargo area. Fortunately, this space is easy to access with your smooth manual liftgate. Some will prefer the available hands-free liftgate, which allows you to access the cargo area with your arms full of groceries. The second-row seats smoothly fold down when you need more space for extra cargo. The Edge offers an impressive maximum cargo volume of 73.4 cubic feet behind the first-row seats. 3. The Great Fuel Economy A twin-scroll 2.0-liter EcoBoost engine powers the new Ford Edge, and is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. You'll have independent front and rear suspension, intelligent all-wheel drive, and auto start-stop technology for impressive handling. These sporty features give you an SUV that averages an impressive 28 miles to the gallon on the highway, and 21 miles to the gallon in the city. 4. The Smart-Looking Exterior The Ford Edge is an SUV that's bound to be noticed thanks to its aggressively styled Silver Honeycomb grille with Chrome surround. The smooth body lines give the Edge a modern appearance that helps it look right at home in the city, with bold LED taillights with amber turn signals helping it stand out. We love the body-color door handles, privacy glass on the rear doors, and low-profile tires. 5. The 12-Inch Touchscreen The Ford Edge's standard touchscreen comes with everything most drivers dream of, from its large 12-inch display, easy-to-see center stack placement, and exceptional SYNC 4A software. Both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard, so you know it's easy to connect your smartphone every time you get in your SUV. You'll also have a great six-speaker sound system, AM/FM stereo, and SiriusXM with 360L for a great listening experience. 6. The Driver Assistance Technology The standard driver-assist tech in the Ford Edge reminds drivers that they are in a safe and modern vehicle, thanks to the support of features like pre-collision assist with automatic emergency braking, post-collision braking, and lane keeping system. The Ford Edge is an SUV with an outstanding design, inside and out. If you're looking for a fun and modern SUV, you'll want to learn more about this year's model. Visit Bill Jackson Ford in Troy, AL today to see our excellent selection of new vehicles.

When the job needs doing, it needs to be done right. That's why the 2024 Ford Ranger is jam-packed with features to help you get more done and enjoy it in the process. Here are some of our favorite features of the 2024 Ranger that make even ​tough jobs feel like a cakewalk. 5 Favorite Features of the 2024 Ford Ranger 1. Powertrains that Perform The Ford Ranger runs on the heart of a Ford, and like all Fords, it's got plenty of muscle under the hood. The entry-level 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine makes 270 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque, offering plenty of muscle to move you and your crew wherever the job takes you. But if you want more power on tap, you just have to ask. The 2.7-liter EcoBoost offering is ready to give its all, targeting 315 horsepower and 400 lb-ft of torque to add even more might to the Ranger. And the top-trim Ranger Raptor offers an exclusive 3.0-liter EcoBoost engine that leverages 405 horsepower and 430 lb-ft of torque to make for a drive that doesn't just make the job easy; it makes it pretty fun, too. 2. Towing Prowess: Anything but Standard Thanks to a high-strength steel frame, powerful motor, and solid rear axle, the Ford Ranger is capable of bringing along up to 7,500 pounds of trailer when properly equipped, and available features like Trailer Brake Controller and Pro Trailer Backup Assist make hauling almost anything a snap. 4. Tailgate Tricks Sometimes, the best way to get the job done is to do it on-site. And with the Ford Ranger on your team, almost anything is possible. Need a saw bench? Use the tailgate, with its craftily concealed clamp pockets to hold your board in place. Need a reference? There's a ruler baked in. And with a 120V/400W outlet coming standard on XLT, Lariat, and Ranger Raptor models, you've got the power to get the job done. 5. One Cozy Cabin Let's face it: your truck is more than an ally in getting the job done. It's an oasis, a home away from home for those who work tough. And with available features like the heated steering wheel, 12-inch vertically mounted center-stack infotainment console, wireless charging pad, and Bang & Olufsen subwoofer-enhanced sound system, you've got everything you need to make your Ford Ranger feel like a little slice of heaven. With so much innovation on the table, it's hard not to fall in love with the Ford Ranger's muscled-up power plant and absolute refusal to quit. So schedule your test drive at Bill Jackson Ford in Troy, AL, and let the 2024 Ford Ranger make your day.

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.