Ford truck owners know the value of their truck. Upgrading a Ford truck with must-have accessories and tools makes it that much better. Whether you’re upgrading your truck to equip it for work, travel, or everyday use, Groppetti Auto Family in Visalia, California, is here to guide you through the top Ford truck accessories on the market.
Power and Illumination for the Job Site
Make sure your Ford truck is ready for whatever the workday brings. A remote start system allows you to start your engine and pre-condition your car from a distance, so that it’s ready whenever you are. If you need off-roading abilities or extra traction support, consider upgrading the wheels or tires. You can choose different sizes and materials, including tires that are specially made for summer or winter.
Custom Ford truck toolboxes fit into your bed for easy access and superior organization. Find the toolbox system that works for you, choosing from lockable options, side mount styles, low profile styles, chest toolboxes, and more.
When a job needs to be done after the sun is down, there’s nothing like having LED lights integrated on your truck’s bull bar. You can also boost visibility with enhanced LED cargo lighting for the interior.
Essential Towing and Hauling Upgrades
Do you do a lot of hauling with your Ford truck? Step up with a tailgate step or ladder. This is an easy upgrade that keeps you safer and allows you to conveniently access your gear or load in the truck bed. A foldable design keeps the tailgate step or ladder out of the way when not in use. Looking for an accessory that makes it easier to carry more gear? Find Ford truck racks that fit your rig.
Towing upgrades for your Ford truck include a towing hitch with a stainless steel hitch ball, which gives your truck the extra strength to tow up to 6,000 lbs. When you are towing a trailer, boat, or camper, upgrade your mirrors to tow mirrors, designed to give the driver more visibility for safer driving. Ensure smooth braking with a Ford trailer brake controller.
Customizing Your Ford F-150 Experience
For the ultimate Ford F-150 experience, consider upgrading with the best F-150 accessories. Keep your truck bed in excellent condition with the help of a durable bed liner. A premium tonneau cover designed specifically for your truck keeps whatever is in your bed protected and secure. Tonneau covers come in soft, roll-up options and durable, hardcover options. Protect the interior of your F-150 with all-weather floor liners that trap dirt and water and are easy to clean.
A bed extender is the perfect Ford F-150 accessory for owners who like to haul oversized items, such as lumber, ladders, or kayaks. The bed extender stabilizes the cargo and keeps it safer on the road, and retractable tie-down anchors keep everything strapped down.
The Ford F-150 can be customized with Pro Power Onboard™, a feature that gives your truck the ability to serve as a mobile generator. It has three levels of electrical output to meet your power needs.
Need extra illumination behind your F-150? Enhance the functionality and style of your Ford truck with tailgate lights bars. Solar-powered options allow for wireless, multi-purpose lighting that can be easily mounted without a drill.
Let’s Upgrade Your Ford Truck
Take your Ford truck to the next level with accessories and tools that make your job easier and your truck better. Contact the Visalia Ford Parts or Sales Team to discuss your options. We’re here to help you get the most out of your Ford truck!
How to Change Windshield Wipers
Your car is made up of many moving parts, and at some time or another, they need to be replaced. One part you might not spend a lot of time thinking about is your windshield wipers. The only time you give them any real thought is when it’s raining. However, over time, your wipers begin to fail and don’t remove as much water as they once did, making it hard to see while driving in the rain.
If you live in some place that gets a lot of rain, you might need to change your wiper blades more often than you would if you lived somewhere drier. Knowing how to change windshield wipers is a skill that you can learn quickly and that saves you money over the life of your vehicle. Here’s a look at how to replace windshield wipers on your car.
The Critical Question: When to Change Windshield Wipers?
The average lifespan of a windshield wiper is six to twelve months. Some signs that it’s time to change your wiper blades include:
- Streaking or smearing
- Skipping or jumping
- Chattering or squeaking
- Unwiped areas
- Cracks or tears
- Warped or bent frame
- Rounded or worn edge
If you see one or more of these signs, it might be time to replace your blades.
Selecting the Right Replacement Blade
You need to know the size of your windshield wiper blade, and this information is available in your vehicle’s owner’s manual. If your budget is tight, you can opt for conventional wipers or splurge on high-performance, all-weather wiper blades. Check the blades’ attachment type to ensure it fits on your wiper arm.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Change Windshield Wipers
There are a few simple steps for how to change windshield wipers. Even for a first try, it shouldn’t take you longer than 10 to 15 minutes to replace your wiper blades. The steps are:
- Place your key in the ignition and turn it to the on position. The engine should not turn over.
- Turn on your windshield wipers and turn them off again when they reach a vertical position. Turn the car back off.
- Pull the wiper blade away from the glass. When you pull it out far enough, you’ll feel it click into place, where it will remain stable.
- At an angle, turn the blade away from the wiper.
- At the bottom of the arm, you’ll see a lock pin or tab. Squeeze it to release the blade. Slide the blade out from the arm and remove it.
- Slide the new wiper blade through the wiper arm’s channel. Pull the tab through the bottom of the arm and press it into place. The sound of a click tells you the blade is in place.
- Repeat the steps on the other windshield wiper blade.
Extending the Life of Your Wipers
New windshield wiper blades are an investment in your car, truck, or SUV. You want them to last as long as possible. Here are a few tips for extending the life of your wiper blades:
- Keep them clean by wiping them with a damp cloth regularly,
- Use a soft cloth with washer fluid to clean the blades themselves
- Keep your windshield clean to avoid abrasive dirt
Contact Our Service Center for a Professional Installation
While you need to know the steps for how to change windshield wipers, you can navigate this chore with minimal effort on your part. You don’t want to have to pay someone to do it for you. At Visalia Ford, we can help you get the replacement parts you need or provide professional service for your car, truck, or SUV. Contact us now to order your new windshield wipers.
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How to Replace the Battery in a Ford Key Fob
You rely on your Ford key fob battery to lock and unlock your doors. In some cases, it also helps to start your car or offer reassurances when you hit the Panic button. However, there may come a time when you click the button and nothing happens. It’s time to change the battery. Here’s a look at everything you need to know:
The Telltale Signs of a Dying Battery
You probably don’t spend a lot of time thinking about your key fob battery. This is okay because there will be warning signs when it’s time to replace the battery. Some signs are subtle while others are obvious. Here’s a look at a few of the telltale signs of a dying battery:
- Bad signal strength
- Reduced signal range
- Locking and unlocking are delayed
- Warning lights on the dashboard
- Difficulty starting the car
- Unresponsive buttons
- Inconsistent performance
If you’ve noticed any of these signs, it’s time to go ahead and change the battery before it fails.
Preparation: Necessary Tools and Battery Selection
When it’s time to replace your key fob battery, you want to have everything you need on hand. You need to assemble your tools, including a screwdriver and the new battery. It’s a good idea to locate your owner’s manual and read the instructions for replacing the battery a couple of times before you get started.
You want to quickly and easily change the battery without looking for additional tools or going to the store for a different size battery. Before you take the first step in replacing your Ford key fob battery, you should verify the size battery based on the year and model of your vehicle.
Step-by-Step Guide: Replacing the Ford Key Fob Battery
Depending on the year and trim level, the answer for how to replace the battery in a Ford key fob may vary a little. The type of Ford key fob battery can be one of three major types of batteries. Here’s a look at the steps:
- Release the key blade. If it’s an older model, you’ll need to manually release it, while newer models have a button to release it.
- Gently pry the key fob open using a screwdriver. Start at the key blade, and insert the screwdriver at that end. Wiggle the screwdriver, and the plastic cover should pop off, revealing the battery underneath.
- Use the screwdriver to pry the battery out.
- Ensuring the plus side is up, replace the battery. Click the key fob cover back in place.
If you have any challenges in replacing your key fob battery, consult your owner’s manual for specific instructions for your year and model.
Troubleshooting and Parts
You need a minimum of tools and parts to change your key fob battery. These tools include:
- A replacement battery, typically CR2032 or CR2025
- Small flathead screwdriver
When you’re replacing your battery, you might run into a problem. Here’s some help with troubleshooting the process:
- Placing the battery in the incorrect position. The positive side should be facing up. When you take off the cover, take a picture of the battery before removing it, so you can ensure correct placement.
- The fob doesn’t work when the casing is replaced. Press down the buttons slowly to see if they click back in place. If that doesn’t work, you may need to take it to a professional.
Contact the Visalia Ford Service Center for More Complex Issues or Professional Assistance
When it’s time to replace the key fob battery, you need to act quickly. Visalia Ford Service Center can get the parts you need. For more complex issues, we want to be your first call. Contact us now.
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The best work truck for contractors and agricultural workers isn’t just transportation—it can also provide power for towing equipment across muddy fields, storage for heavy equipment, and comfortable conveniences after a long day at work. When you’re choosing business trucks or a truck that will do double-duty for farm life and family life, there’s no replacement for a Ford truck. Take a closer look at the capabilities that matter most before swinging by Visalia Ford for a test drive.
Blog Highlights
- Measure your towing capacity needs to decide if you need a lighter F-150 with around 13,500 pounds of towing capacity or a heavy-duty truck with 38,000 pounds of towing capacity.
- Consider additional features like Pro Power Onboard so your truck can act as a mobile generator for remote projects.
- Ford trucks are long-lasting, and consistently maintained trucks can last hundreds of thousands of miles.
Unmatched Towing and Payload Capacity for Tough Jobs
The F-Series Ford trucks offer extremely powerful engines and robust towing capacities, supported by modern technologies like Trailer Sway Control and Pro Trailer Backup Assist. Before you start your search for the best work truck for contractors, consider how much weight you need to carry—both every day and for big jobs. The F-150 can tow up to 13,500 pounds, while the F-350 Super Duty truck can tow around 38,000 pounds. Factors like the bed length and engine also determine just what equipment you can comfortably carry. With the Tow/Haul Package and assist feature backing up the Ford Super Duty towing capacity, you can easily tow bigger or bulkier loads and get where you need to go.
Pro Power Onboard: Power Tools and Equipment Anywhere
When you’re out in the field, power can be hard to come by. But Ford trucks for farmers have Pro Power Onboard options, which give heavy-duty trucks the extra ability to act as a mobile generator for electrical equipment. The system integrates directly into the truck’s electrical system and has sockets in the bed, cabin, or front truck with output levels ranging from 2.0 kW to 9.6kW (with electric truck models). You can power equipment far from the main structure or you can keep working during a power outage. These heavy-duty trucks also provide power monitoring through the app so you can monitor usage remotely.
Built for Durability on Farms and Job Sites
Ford trucks are built for handling heavy loads and bumpy roads. Each truck has a high-strength steel frame that can withstand harsh weather conditions and provide the foundation for strong towing capabilities. The body is built from military-grade aluminum. Aluminum has an excellent strength-to-weight ratio, meaning you have a strong, dent-resistant vehicle that’s still light enough to give you extra fuel efficiency.
Ford trucks don’t just have rugged materials and a strong construction. The trucks undergo stringent durability testing sequences to measure the performance of the vehicle and engine. Each EcoBoost engine is built for long-term power capabilities, and with proper servicing and maintenance, heavy-duty trucks from Ford can last well over 200,000 miles. Some F-150s can even last to 400,000 miles and beyond.
Test Drive a Ford Truck With Visalia Ford Today
Looking for the best work truck for contractors to grow your fleet or start your business? Visalia Ford has an extensive inventory of Ford trucks for farmers, including new and Certified Pre-Owned models. Search through our selection of heavy-duty trucks, small or large work trucks, and models with upgraded features so you can power your work with the right truck. Start your search online or swing by our dealership in person to talk about the features and capabilities you need with our Ford team.
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Difference Between Used vs. Certified Pre-Owned Cars
You don’t have to buy a new car to have a high-quality, safe, and long-lasting vehicle that suits your lifestyle. As more and more drivers look for budget-friendly replacements for their vehicles, the used and certified pre-owned car markets are growing. But before you visit a car lot to explore your options, it’s important to fully understand certified pre-owned vs. used cars so you can make your next purchase with more confidence.
Blog Highlights
- Certified Pre-Owned vehicles undergo manufacturer inspections and reconditioning and have more robust manufacturer-backed warranties than pre-owned cars.
- Used or pre-owned vehicles are typically cheaper than a certified CPO vehicle, but don’t have the same quality and safety guarantees.
- Real Certified Pre-Owned vehicles will have a manufacturer CPO certificate, and you can verify the VIN on the manufacturer’s website.
What Defines a Used Car?
The term “used car” is very broad. It includes any car that a previous owner has owned or operated. Most of the used car market was previously owned by consumers, though some cars may have previously been owned by rental businesses or other commercial entities. Dealerships may also sell demonstrator vehicles—cars used for customer demos—as used vehicles once a model is old enough.
While used cars include any car that’s been previously owned, you’ll find a wide range of mileages, ages, and conditions. Once a car has been categorized as a used vehicle, it sees an immediate depreciation in value. If you’re interested in owning a used vehicle, you can use this to your advantage—you can find very low-mileage vehicles that are significantly lower in cost than new vehicles that are the same make and model.
Within the wider category of used cars, you’ll also find a special category: Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) cars.
What Sets Certified Pre-Owned Cars Apart?
Certified Pre-Owned vehicles are a special class of used cars that meet higher standards. Manufacturers can certify used cars as CPOs if the vehicles meet stringent inspections, fit within certain mileage and age criteria, and are in good or excellent condition. This classification tells consumers that the vehicles meet certain clear standards for safety, performance, and “newness.” There are additional benefits of considering CPOs instead of used cars, as manufacturers usually offer extended warranties.
Used cars, on the other hand, aren’t required to meet similar standards. You might have some insight into their performance and specifications if they have a report and a clear history tied to their VIN, and if you have the car thoroughly inspected. But used cars can have higher mileage, less efficient performance, and older parts.
Comparing Value, Benefits, and Risks
When you’re comparing Certified Pre-Owned vs. used cars, it’s extremely unlikely that you’ll find virtually identical vehicles in each category. Instead, you’ll need to weigh the potential advantages of pre-owned vs. certified pre-owned cars in general to decide the right fit for you. Consider factors like:
- Upfront price: Used cars are typically cheaper than Certified Pre-Owned cars.
- Maintenance over time: Because CPO vehicles must pass stringent inspections and tend to be newer, they’re less likely to need expensive repairs soon after purchase.
- Peace of mind: If you’re nervous about buying a pre-owned car, CPOs can be a great middle ground because they’ve been owned before, but the manufacturer stands behind their continued safety and performance.
Explore Your Next Vehicle With Visalia Ford
At Visalia Ford, we offer a wide range of CPO and used vehicles. Visit our dealership to learn more about Certified Pre-Owned vs. used cars and to explore different options. You can see the differences for yourself and take your favorite out for a test drive. Just starting your car search? You can also explore our inventory online.
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Is it Better to Buy or Lease a Car?
Visalia is car country, and no matter what you want to drive, having a reliable and powerful car makes big adventures and daily life more fun. But when it’s time for a new car, you have lots of options: SUV vs. truck, gas-powered car vs. EV… bought vs. leased. If you’ve been thinking about the potential benefits of leasing vs. buying a car, the car enthusiasts at Visalia Ford are here to help. Get your answer to questions like, “Is it better to buy or lease a car?” with this quick guide.
The Benefits of Buying a Car
Buying and owning your own car is the most common option for drivers—and for good reason. In the leasing vs. buying a car debate, many drivers prefer to own their own car. Some of the advantages of car ownership include:
- Lower long-term costs: If you’re financing a car, you can choose a shorter-term loan with a higher monthly payment or a longer-term loan with a lower monthly payment. You get to pick based on your current budget, disposable income, and long-term financial goals.
- You build equity: Over time, you gain equity in the car and, after a handful of years, you can own the vehicle outright. Whether you want to pay off the vehicle and not have a car payment or you want to use that equity to trade in your vehicle for a newer model every so often, owning part or all of your car makes a big difference.
- No restrictions: Because you own the car, you don’t have to worry about wear and tear, adhering to any mileage restrictions, or managing other contractual terms. You can drive the car as much as you please, handle your own maintenance or work with your preferred mechanic, and even make customizations over time so the car better fits your driving style.
Negatives of Buying a Car
It’s important to consider the big picture of owning your own car. Depending on your finances, you may need to put down a bigger initial payment or have larger monthly payments. As cars get older, they also depreciate, impacting their future resale value.
The Advantages of Leasing a Car
Leasing a car offers you a lot of freedom, and to fully round out the debate on leasing vs. buying a car, it’s important to understand the unique advantages a lease can offer you. Consider:
- Lower Costs: The cost of leasing a car can be less than the monthly payment of a new car, especially if you find a good deal. You can also have a lower upfront cost, only having to pay the first month, and see startup fees.
- More Protection: Leases often have more robust warranties and maintenance programs. Depending on the make, model, and dealership, many of your maintenance tasks may be entirely covered.
- Access to Newer Cars: You can lease a new car at the end of every lease term. If you love having the latest cars and exploring new technology, leasing your car can make it easier to switch to new models that pique your interest.
Negatives of Leasing a Car
However, there are some potential constraints depending on your lifestyle. For example, leases may restrict your annual mileage to around 12,000 miles, which can be a problem if you’re frequently on the road. You may also have to pay for wear and tear that falls outside of typical usage. But if you typically have low-mileage commutes and can take good care of the vehicle, these negatives won’t impact you.
Key Factors to Consider: Budget, Lifestyle, and Driving Habits
As you weigh leaving vs. buying a car, consider these factors:
- Monthly budget
- How much driving you expect to do each year
- Maintenance requirements
- If you enjoy customizing or modifying cars
- If you prefer having access to new cars every couple of years
Find the Right Option With Visalia Ford
Is it better to buy or lease a car? If you’re not sure, our team can help you decide. Visit us today to explore models for buying or leasing and compare plans to see what suits your lifestyle best.
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Visalia has a mild winter climate and hot summers, with temperatures reaching around 96 degrees throughout the summer. If you’ve lived around Visalia for years, you may be familiar with how hot weather can affect the maintenance requirements for traditional gas cars. But if you’re switching to a hybrid or EV—or the Visalia area is new to you—make sure you factor the climate into your electric vehicle maintenance to-dos.
Essential Maintenance for Electric and Hybrid Vehicles
Electric and hybrid vehicles share a lot of the same maintenance requirements as conventional cars. Some essential electric vehicle maintenance and hybrid maintenance tasks include:
- Brake system checks and maintenance
- Tire maintenance, including rotating and replacing
- Fluid checks
- Battery care and replacement
Your hybrid or EV will also require software upgrades; while all new cars have some computerized systems that require occasional updates, it’s even more important for hybrids and EVs to get prompt, routine software upgrades on schedule. Some of these tasks you can manage alone, such as visually checking your battery system at routine intervals, keeping your tires properly inflated, and even checking some of your car’s fluid levels. But for many of these tasks, it’s best to schedule routine appointments with a trusted mechanic who knows EVs.
Tips for Electric and Hybrid Vehicle Care in Visalia’s Hot Climate
EVs are more vulnerable to heat than conventional cars—imagine how hot your laptop or phone gets when you leave it out in the sun! With that in mind, one of the best ways to care for your hybrid or EV is to keep it cool. Park in the shade or in your garage when you can. This protects the battery from overheating, which damages the battery and can permanently shorten its lifespan.
For better EV battery care in a hot climate, charge your battery during cooler parts of the day: early morning, late evening, or even overnight. If you have sufficient battery charge, run the A/C before you charge, as this can cool the cabin. One last tip for your battery system is to moderate how much you charge it; around 80% gives you a good charge, while going up to 90-100% can generate excessive heat that wears on the battery long-term.
There are also some driving best practices that can protect EV cars and hybrids. Consider:
- Pre-cooling your vehicle, especially before a long drive.
- Cruising—stop-and-go traffic or hard acceleration is bad for the battery systems.
- Learning more about your specific model’s hill-hold or battery saver options, as they can reduce strain on your battery when it matters most.
- Replacing your cabin filter on schedule so the cooling system works at peak efficiency (or more frequently if you travel along dusty roads)
Where to Get Vehicle Maintenance
Getting your vehicle maintenance done on time is a great way to protect your vehicle and ensure its systems run reliably and smoothly for the maximum possible time. But where you get your vehicle maintenance done can be almost as important as when you get it done. For EVs and hybrids, especially, we recommend taking your car to a dealership mechanic. Dealership mechanics have extensive training in EV technologies, the needs of hybrid vehicles, and the ins and outs of your specific car model.
At Visalia Ford, our electric vehicle maintenance and hybrid maintenance team receives in-depth training so you can get back on the road with complete peace of mind, whether you stopped by for seasonal maintenance or you need a professional to assess your inverter/converter.
Leave it to the Experts—Schedule Your Electric or Hybrid Vehicle Maintenance at Visalia Ford
The team at Visalia Ford is here to help you adopt a greener lifestyle with an EV or hybrid vehicle. These driving tips are just the start. We can provide maintenance services, provide resources on battery care, and help you find your next EV. Reach out today to make caring for your hybrid or EV Ford easier than ever.
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Dealership vs. Independent Mechanics
Your Ford needs regular maintenance and servicing to provide a smooth ride season after season. Many car owners wait until something starts to malfunction or their oil life is nearing zero percent to start scheduling an appointment, making them feel rushed into scheduling an appointment with the first mechanic they see. But it’s important to weigh the benefits of a dealership vs. mechanic with an independent shop so you can make sure you and your car are getting the service you need.
Pros and Cons: Dealerships vs. Local Mechanics
There are many different criteria that go into picking your preferred choice between a dealership mechanic and an independent mechanic. Consider these core elements:
Parts and Inventory
Different makes and models have different parts. An independent mechanic who is servicing a wide range of vehicles, especially if they have an independent shop without a network of additional locations, is unlikely to have exactly the right parts you need every time. This means scheduling an emergency service with them may be hit or miss.
But dealership mechanics tend to have a large inventory of the parts for the cars they service. Partner dealerships with multiple locations also have a network so, even if they don’t have the right part right at their fingertips, they can easily source it from a nearby dealership and get you back on the road.
Pricing
The average cost for the same repairs or maintenance service will vary between dealerships vs. mechanics running their own business, with independent mechanics offering cheaper services. However, dealerships tend to pay more for experienced labor and for brand-specific parts straight from the original equipment manufacturer instead of a third-party. For cost-sensitive drivers interested in basic maintenance, an independent mechanic can do the work. But for warranty work, complex repairs, or rare servicing requirements, the extra peace of mind a dealership offers may be worth the price.
Training and Experience
Dealerships tend to hire staff with more experience, especially dedicated experience in the makes and models the business specializes in. High-quality dealerships also provide extensive training to guarantee that everyone receives five-star service.
Warranty Protection
Car warranties cover many mechanical and electrical components for 12-month or multi-year periods. But if you do work by yourself or go to an independent mechanic, they could void the warranty entirely. Dealership mechanics are certified in warranty and recall work, so they can make repairs or even provide upgrades while keeping your warranty intact.
Customer Service and Convenience
Dealerships like Visalia Ford go the extra mile to make sure you enjoy convenient, comfortable service. If you don’t like having your day interrupted by servicing or repairs, consider whether dealerships vs. mechanics are more likely to have beverages and comfortable lobbies, Lyfts so you can get to your next destination, and short, well-communicated wait times.
Available Services
Dealerships offer a comprehensive range of repairs, annual or semi-annual servicing appointments, and more. At Visalia Ford, we provide the following services:
- Fluid checks and corrections
- Transmission services
- Light and electrical checks
- Internal repairs and servicing
- Brake services
- A/C and heating services
- General repairs
- And more
How to Choose
It’s important to make the right choice for your schedule, budget, and vehicle. Considering all the above factors will tell you if a mechanic is the right fit for your repairs. If you’re not sure how to choose between a dealership vs. a mechanic, try scheduling your next appointment with a dealership so you can decide if you enjoy the experience and the services.
Visalia Ford: The Groppetti Auto Family Difference
Visalia Ford is a trusted dealership right in the middle of Visalia near 198. We provide convenient, reliable services and offer a comfortable waiting area for all of our customers. Local residents trust Visalia Ford to keep their vehicles running right.
Schedule a Service Today
Ready to take a mechanic for a test run? Schedule a servicing appointment at Visalia Ford today to experience the gold standard in care.
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How Much Does A Hybrid Save On Gas?
Visalia, California, has breathtaking views and lovely scenic routes. Many tourists and residents alike enjoy cruising down the streets just to check out some of the most stunning natural backdrops that the state has to offer. While cruising around this gorgeous town can be both entertaining and relaxing, driving too far can leave both your gas tank and your wallet empty.
At Visalia Ford, we have the perfect solution. We offer a wide range of eco-friendly hybrid vehicles that offer both a powerful combustion engine and an efficient electric motor. On average, drivers in the Fresno-Visalia-Madera-Handford region end up spending around $300 in extra fuel costs every year. With our eco-friendly lineup, you trim down those extra expenses without sacrificing performance or style. Here is a closer look at all of the exclusive benefits of hybrid cars.
Hybrid Cars vs. Gas Cars
Most people know that a gas-powered car is powered by gasoline only, and a hybrid car is fueled by both gas and electricity. However, knowing exactly how each power source works with the motors and engines will help you better understand how these two vehicles consume fuel differently.
Gas-Powered Car
All gas-powered vehicles have combustion engines. This type of engine works by first sucking in fuel and air into a cylinder and compressing it down with the pistons. Once the mixture is compressed, a spark ignites the fuel, causing tiny explosions or combustion. When a vehicle is travelling at a high rate of speed, fuel is burned faster.
As long as the vehicle is running, it is using gas, even if it’s idling. However, an idle engine runs cooler, which means some of the gasoline might not get all the way burned after being ignited. This can cause fuel residue to build up on the cylinder walls, essentially wasting the fuel.
Hybrid Cars
There are a couple of different types of hybrid vehicles (MHEV) available on the market today. Mild hybrids use a small electric motor to assist the engine during braking and accelerating. With this setup, the electric motor is only there to help the combustion engine and is never used to power the vehicle by itself.
A plug-in hybrid (PHEV) uses a larger electric motor. The battery powering the motor is stronger and more robust than what you find on a mild hybrid. This not only gives more assistance to the combustion engine when braking and accelerating, but it can also power the vehicle on its own for a limited amount of time.
How Hybrids Save Money on Gas
Hybrid vehicles don’t use the full power of the engine at all times. Instead, they let the electric motor assist or even take over, giving your combustion engine and your gas tank a bit of a break. On average, most drivers in Visalia are able to reduce their fuel consumption by 30 to 50% when driving a hybrid car.
Other Benefits of Hybrids
In addition to saving you money at the pump, hybrid vehicles have a variety of other benefits, which include:
- Lower annual maintenance costs
- Reduced emissions
- Quiet and smoother operations
- Allow access to HOV lanes
California has a Drive Clean initiative that offers a variety of tax credits for people who own electric and hybrid vehicles. California hybrid owners are able to take advantage of both federal and state incentives that could give them up to several thousand dollars in tax credit. To see what incentive you qualify for, click here.
Get to Know Ford’s Hybrid Line-Up
At Visalia Ford, we have a variety of new and used hybrid vehicles to fit everyone’s needs and budget.
One of our most popular models is the 2025 Ford Maverick XL. This stunning truck’s exterior has been redesigned to feature sleek and elegant curves that not only make it look nice but also make it more aerodynamic. The Flexbed storage helps drivers to keep their cargo safe and organized.
The interior of the Ford Maverick XL is spacious and can seat up to five adults comfortably, offering plenty of legroom for both front and backseat passengers. There are also a variety of high-end amenities, including a large LED touchscreen, a 360-degree camera, and standard driver-assist.
If an SUV is more your style, then you’ve got to check out the 2025 Ford Escape Plug-In Hybrid. This vehicle features breathtaking style on the outside and a luxurious and spacious interior. The heated seats and dual-zone climate control panel ensure that all occupants of the vehicle are comfortable all year long. Features such as the Lane-Keep Assist, Pedestrian Alert, rear parking sensor, and Cross-Traffic Alert help to keep everyone in and outside of the vehicle safe.
Financially Smart and Eco-Conscious: Find Your Next Ford Hybrid at Visalia Ford
Ready to start saving money while driving in style? At Visalia Ford, we offer a wide variety of powerful and luxurious hybrid vehicles. Contact us today to learn more about our hybrid inventory.
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How Often Should You Change Your Oil?
The oil in your car goes bad over time. It breaks down, picks up dirt and particles, and eventually can’t provide the lubricating and cooling capabilities your engine needs. At Visalia Ford, we provide fast and convenient oil changes with a wide range of conventional, semi-synthetic, and synthetic oils based on what’s best for your car. Learn more about how often to schedule a Ford oil change and how to check your oil in between changes.
When to Change Your Oil
It’s important to have a Ford oil change regularly, but that schedule changes depending on what type of oil is in your car. You can determine what type of oil your car should use by:
Conventional Oil
Synthetic Oil
Semi-Synthetic or Synthetic Blend Oil
- Consulting your owner’s manual
- Checking online or asking a car parts store
- Contacting your dealership
These sources will say whether you should have synthetic or conventional oil and what viscosity it should have, depending on the make and model of your car.
Conventional Oil
If you have conventional oil, schedule a Ford oil change every six months or so. Most conventional oils last between 3,000 and 5,000 miles, though some can last up to 10,000 miles in ideal driving conditions. Your car’s manual can give you a more specific schedule for your particular vehicle.
Synthetic Oil
Synthetic oil is designed to last longer, up to 15,000 miles or around a year. However, if you drive in stop-and-go traffic or do a lot of driving along dusty roads, the life of the oil will be shortened.
Semi-Synthetic or Synthetic Blend Oil
Semi-synthetic oil and synthetic blend oil last approximately as long as conventional oil, and they will need replacing every six months or so.
Other Factors That Influence How Often You Should Change Your Oil
Car and oil manufacturers offer standard advice and mileage ranges to guide how often drivers bring their cars in for an oil change. However, these numbers are conservative estimates, and your car may need a different schedule. Here are some other factors to consider:
- Vehicle make and model: Your car’s manual can give you specific scheduling recommendations.
- Driving habits: Driving in stop-and-go traffic, along dusty or steep roads, or with heavy loads can shorten the lifespan of your oil.
How to Check Your Oil
In between Ford oil changes, it’s a great idea to regularly check your oil. Oil may leak to low levels, or the oil can pick up too much dirt and particulate over time. It’s an easy diagnostic tool that can help alert you if your car needs an oil change sooner than you think. As a general rule, try to check the oil at least once a month.
What You Need
To check your oil, all you need is a dipstick (generally provided in your car) and a paper towel.
What to Do
When your engine is cool and hasn’t been running for a while, open the hood and locate the dipstick, which usually has a bright yellow or orange handle. Carefully pull the dipstick out, wipe it clean on a paper towel, and fully reinsert it. Then, pull it out again and examine the oil on the dipstick.
At this stage, you can check the level by seeing if the oil reaches between the minimum and maximum markings on the dipstick. You can also check the color and consistency. It should be clear or golden, smooth, and thin. But if the oil is dark, gritty, or milky, it’s time for an oil change.
Why Changing Your Oil Regularly Is Important
Your car relies on clean oil to lubricate the engine parts, provide cooling, and clear out contaminants. If the oil is low or too dirty, it can cause friction and leave your engine too hot. Over time, this decreases fuel efficiency and hurts your engine.
Stay Road-Ready—Schedule Your Next Oil Service at Visalia Ford
At Visalia Ford, we provide quick and professional Ford oil changes. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and get routinely scheduled reminders to keep your car in great shape.
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