The Ultimate Car Maintenance Checklist
All cars require routine maintenance to keep them in great condition. But every system has its own schedule, and simply having the same routine checkup every three years won’t protect your car. Instead, you need to schedule different checkups for different parts of your car over time. At Visalia Ford, we have the servicing, maintenance, and inspection services you need for every assembly in your car, and we make it easy to check off every to-do. Use this checklist to make sure you’re getting your car the right appointments at the right time.
Short-Term Checkups Necessary for Car Functionality
Some systems in your Ford need more attention than others. Parts that quickly run through their lifespan, get dirty, or pick up wear and tear need maintenance more often. Consider these short-term checkups:
- Oil and coolant levels: Check these fluids once a month and before any long road trips. Oil changes should happen every 5,000 miles (approximately once every six months), but you only need to replace coolant every 50,000 or so miles, or every two to three years.
- Air filter: Most air filters need to be replaced every 12,000 miles, or approximately once a year. If you drive in dusty conditions, consider changing it more often.
- Tire pressure and tread depth: Check your tires at least once a month, and recheck the tire pressures after the first cold front in the fall or winter.
- Headlights, parking lights, and turn signals: Check your lights’ performance once a month, and clean your headlights twice a year.
- Brakes: Have your brakes professionally checked at least once a year. You can also have them checked during your semi-annual tire rotation if you drive in heavy traffic frequently.
- Tire rotation: Schedule your tire rotation for once every six months.
Frequently checking in on these systems can prevent larger-scale wear and tear or malfunctions.
Long-Term Necessary Checkups
Some systems need less frequent car repair and maintenance because they’re built to last longer. Add these items to your long-term car maintenance checklist:
- Transfer fluid case: For most cars, you should have this changed every 50,000 miles or so, but drivers who use four-wheel drive or tow heavy loads may need to change it every 30,000 miles.
- Shocks and struts: These systems can wear out between 50,000 and 100,000 miles, depending on the bumpiness and condition of the road. Consider having them checked once a year.
- Coolant fluid exchange: Replace the coolant every three years or so, though some extended-life coolants can last up to ten years.
- Spark plugs: Spark plugs can last up to 90,000 miles, depending on the design and materials. Consult your car manual for details regarding your vehicle’s spark plugs.
- Serpentine belt: Serpentine belts can last up to 100,000 miles, but it’s best to inspect them for damage starting at 60,000 miles.
Cosmetic Maintenance
Cosmetic maintenance is also part of keeping your car in great driving condition. We recommend having your car cleaned every two weeks, especially if you drive along dusty or dirty roads. Extra maintenance steps like waxing your car can protect the paint, and semi-annual professional detailing can protect all the finishes.
From Oil Changes to Inspection—We’ve Got You Covered
Keeping your car maintenance on schedule protects your car. Use this simple car maintenance checklist to keep everything on track. You can also schedule your appointments with Visalia Ford, and our team can contact you when it’s time for a short-term or long-term inspection so you don’t have to keep track. Schedule a service appointment today to set up a routine maintenance and inspection appointment that fits your schedule.
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Best Ford SUV for Families in 2025
Picking the right SUV is a big decision, especially when you’re prioritizing safety, comfort, and technology. In 2025, Ford’s lineup offers standout options that excel in terms of safety, comfort, and style. Let’s explore the best Ford SUVs for families, featuring advanced safety, spacious interiors, and the latest technology, so you can make an informed choice for your unique family’s needs.
Key Features to Consider in a Family SUV
Choosing the right family SUV involves prioritizing key features such as safety, space, comfort, and technology.
Safety
Safety is a top priority. Ford’s advanced systems, like adaptive cruise control and blind-spot monitoring, are designed to prevent accidents and protect passengers. These features provide peace of mind, ensuring every trip is as safe as possible.
Space
Space is essential for family travel. Ford SUVs offer roomy interiors with flexible seating and ample cargo space, perfect for everything from daily commutes to weekend adventures. The adaptable configurations make it easy to accommodate both passengers and luggage.
Comfort
Comfort is a necessity for long drives. Ford’s plush seating and climate control systems create a pleasant atmosphere for all occupants. High-quality materials and ergonomic designs ensure a smooth ride, even on extended trips.
Technology
Technology enhances the driving experience. Ford’s infotainment systems integrate seamlessly with smartphones, providing easy access to navigation, music, and communication. Voice-activated controls and intuitive touchscreens keep everyone connected and entertained.
Top Ford SUV Models for Families in 2025
Ford’s SUV lineup offers a wide variety of options that are tailored to the needs of families of all shapes and sizes. Here are the standout models for 2025.
Ford Explorer
The Ford Explorer is a go-to choice for families, thanks to its spacious interior and advanced safety features. It comfortably seats up to seven passengers, offering generous legroom and ample cargo space, making it perfect for larger families or those with a lot of gear. Ford’s Co-Pilot360™ technology, featuring lane-keeping assist and automatic emergency braking, ensures a secure ride. Comfort is enhanced with tri-zone climate control and optional leather seating, while the SYNC® 4A infotainment system provides seamless smartphone integration for on-the-go entertainment.
Ford Expedition
For families needing more space and luxury, the Ford Expedition is a solid choice. It seats up to eight passengers and offers features such as power-folding seats and a panoramic sunroof, creating an open and airy feel. Advanced tech, including adaptive cruise control and a 360-degree camera, adds to its appeal. The Expedition’s robust engine options deliver strong performance, whether in the city or off-road.
Ford Edge
The Ford Edge is ideal for smaller families, striking a balance between performance and comfort. It seats five and includes the latest tech like the SYNC® 4A system with voice commands and wireless connectivity. Safety features such as post-collision braking and evasive steering assist boost driver confidence. Its fuel-efficient engines make it a cost-effective choice for daily drives and family trips.
The Future of Ford SUVs: Electric and Hybrid Options
Ford is leading the charge towards electric and hybrid SUVs by offering environmental benefits and cost savings. These models maintain the safety, space, and tech features families expect.
Ford’s commitment to expanding charging infrastructure supports a shift to sustainable driving, and their electric and hybrid SUVs not only reduce emissions but also offer long-term savings on fuel and maintenance. With models like the all-electric Mustang Mach-E and the hybrid Ford Escape, families can enjoy cutting-edge technology and performance while maintaining environmental responsibility.
Visit Visalia Ford to Purchase Your Next SUV
Selecting the ideal Ford SUV in 2025 involves considering key factors such as safety, space, comfort, and technology. With options like the versatile Explorer, the luxurious Expedition, and the efficient Edge, Ford’s lineup meets each unique family’s needs. As the industry shifts towards sustainability, Ford’s electric and hybrid models truly shine. These models offer eco-friendly choices without sacrificing quality.
Visit Visalia Ford today to browse the full range of Ford SUVs and find the perfect fit for your family.
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What Is Co-Pilot 360?
Driver assist technology is becoming standard in newer car models. But the driver-assist technology you choose can have a big impact on your safety, driving experience, and peace of mind. Ford Co-Pilot360 is a comprehensive technology that makes driving in cities, suburban intersections, and rural roads easier than ever. Learn more about Ford Co-Pilot 360, and then come in to Visalia Ford to take it for a spin.
Defining Co-Pilot360
Standard options for Ford’s Co-Pilot360 features include crucial basics that are part of the modern driving experience: automatic emergency braking, blind spot information systems (BLIS), rearview cameras, and lane assistance. But what really makes Ford’s newest models stand out is the advanced Ford Co-Pilot360 Assist features.
Advanced Driver-Assist Technologies: How Co-Pilot360 Works
Optimize your driving experience with more strategic assistance programs, including adaptive cruising, steering and monitoring assistance, and better braking support so you can prevent more accidents and have better outcomes in the event of a collision.
All of these additional features work together to help drivers more automatically follow safe driving practices, such as staying centered in their driving lanes, keeping a safe distance based on speed and road conditions, and staying within the speed limit. With automated controls and advanced sensors, and cameras, Ford cars can do more than ever to keep drivers safe.
Features and Function of Ford’s Co-Pilot360
Before you commit to a car with safe driving assistance features, it’s important to know the details.
What’s Included With Ford’s Co-Pilot360
The features included in Ford Co-Pilot360 Technology packages include:
- Pre-Collision Assist: This offers a combination of alerts, warnings, and automated braking to avoid front-end collisions.
- Blind Spot Assist: Ford models include a 360-degree camera system so you can view every angle while driving under 6 mph for easier turning and parking.
- Reverse Brake Assist: You can also get alerts and auto braking to reduce collisions while reversing.
- Adaptive Cruise Control: Cruise with smart technology that stays at a set speed, slows to accommodate traffic and minimum safe driving distances, and keeps you squarely in the middle of your lane.
Safer Driving: The Benefits of Co-Pilot360
Co-Pilot 360 offers safer driving, with:
- Automated braking to mitigate the risk of accidents
- Greater visibility around your car from every angle
- More sensors that provide auditory alerts and visual warnings
- Automated controls to stay in the middle of your lane and further back from the car ahead of you
Ford Car Models With Co-Pilot360 Installed
Ford’s new driver assistance technology is available in the following models:
- Bronco and Bronco Sport
- Explorer
- Escape
- Expedition
- Mustang
- Mustang Mach-E
- F-150
- Maverick
- Ranger
- And more
Many of these vehicles also include features like the FordPass App for remote information access and control, easy software updates over the air, and Ford BlueCruise for hands-free driving on specific highways.
Ready for a Test Drive?
Considering upgrading to some of the smartest cars on the market? Visit Visalia Ford today to talk to local experts about the latest driving assist technologies and the top features in our selection of Ford cars. Test drive your favorite car and take it home today!
FAQ
What is Ford Co-Pilot360?
Ford Co-Pilot360 is a suite of driver-assist technologies designed to enhance safety and comfort. It includes standard features like automatic emergency braking, blind spot monitoring, rearview cameras, and lane assistance.
What is included in Ford Co-Pilot360 Assist+?
Co-Pilot360 Assist+ adds more advanced technology on top of the standard package, such as adaptive cruise control, enhanced steering and monitoring assistance, improved braking support, and additional sensors and cameras for safer driving.
How does Ford Co-Pilot360 improve safety?
These systems work together to keep the vehicle centered in its lane, maintain safe following distances, help prevent collisions, and give drivers better visibility with alerts, warnings, and automated braking.
What is the difference between Co-Pilot360 and Co-Pilot360 Assist Plus?
The standard Co-Pilot360 package provides core safety features, while Assist+ includes more advanced assistance tools like adaptive cruising and enhanced automation for a smoother, more strategic driving experience.
Which Ford models offer Co-Pilot360?
Many newer Ford vehicles include Co-Pilot360 features, including Bronco, Bronco Sport, Explorer, Escape, Expedition, Mustang, Mustang Mach-E, F-150, Maverick, Ranger, and more.
Is Ford Co-Pilot 360 Worth it?
Driver assistance technology offers several benefits that make it worth it. Along with greater safety, you can enjoy less stress on the road, potential savings on your car insurance, and more convenience on long trips.
Can I Test Drive With Ford Co-Pilot 360?
The best way to learn what driver-assist system is right for you is by going for a test drive. Visit Visalia Ford to find new models with all the Co-Pilot360 features, and test drive the vehicle to see how it transforms driving into a more peaceful and fun experience.
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What’s New in the 2025 Ford Explorer?
The Ford Explorer is the best-selling SUV of all time. It continues that legacy with the 2025 edition. The new model features a refreshed look, cutting-edge technology, and premium comfort features. The latest Explorer has a streamlined lineup of four trims: Active, ST-Line, ST, and Platinum.
Curious about what Ford has in store for the new model year? Keep reading as Groppetti Auto Family breaks down all the exciting updates packed into the 2025 Ford Explorer.
The 2025 Ford Explorer: A New Look
The first change you’ll notice in the 2025 Ford Explorer is its new look. The updated design features a bold new front fascia, with a larger grille and sleek-looking LED headlights. Updated rear taillights provide a cohesive look. The chassis features a broad-shouldered stance that balances ruggedness and refinement.
The changes continue on the inside. The redesigned dashboard has been pushed forward to provide a more spacious cabin. The center console and door panels are adorned with premium soft-touch materials. The cabin color schemes are trim-specific:
- Platinum: Luxurious Mojave Dusk leather with matched accent stitching
- ST: Sporty Black Onyx elements with bold red accent stitching
- ST-Line: Athletic-inspired design cues
- Active: Rugged elegance with Ultra Dark Space Gray and Harvest Bronze accents
Explore Cutting-Edge Automotive Technology
The 2025 Explorer continues the model’s focus on innovation. It’s the first Ford vehicle to feature the new Ford Digital Experience infotainment system. The new system features a standard 13.2-inch touchscreen paired with a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster.
The infotainment system integrates Google Maps for seamless navigation along with Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa for a complete set of voice command functionalities. When parked, the screen can stream videos or play games from the Google Play Store.
The vehicle makes full use of this new infotainment system with impressive connectivity features:
- Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility
- Multiple USB ports throughout all three rows
- Wireless charging pad for cable-free power
- 12-speaker Bang & Olufsen sound system standard on most trims
Perhaps an even more significant innovation is the addition of Ford’s BlueCruise hands-free highway driving system. Previously unavailable on the Explorer, this feature enables true hands-free driving on compatible highways. For increased safety, it uses a driver-facing camera to ensure attention remains on the road when hands are off the wheel.
Your mood varies as you’re driving from one day to the next. Ford provides a way to reflect this with the Explorer’s customizable multi-color ambient lighting system. These LED lights illuminate the interior of the SUV with a choice of seven colors: Ice Blue, Orange, Soft Blue, Red, Green, Blue, and Purple. Drivers can now perfectly reflect how they feel in the moment.
Is the 2025 Ford Explorer the Ultimate Package?
The 2025 Ford Explorer offers an excellent blend of capability, comfort, and cutting-edge features. These have made the SUV a standout performer for as long as it’s been produced. These offerings make a compelling case that the Ford Explorer is the ultimate family SUV.
The powertrain options remain impressive, including the standard 2.3L turbocharged EcoBoost four-cylinder with its 300 horsepower and the twin-turbo 3.0L V6 with its impressive 400 horsepower. The vehicle features a 10-speed automatic transmission and is available in rear-wheel drive and all-wheel drive options.
What really makes the Explorer such a popular option is its practical appeal. It has versatile seating options, accommodating up to seven passengers. The second-row seats fold easily with one touch for easy access to the third row. Those third-row seats can be folded down, greatly expanding the cargo capacity of the SUV.
Safety remains a major focus for Ford. The new Explorer features the Ford Co-Pilot360 suite of driver-assistance technologies. This includes adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go capability, evasive steering assist, and lane-centering functionality.
Discover Excellence at Groppeti Auto Family
To see for yourself why the Ford Explorer is the best-selling SUV, come down to Visalia Ford today and see one for yourself. Better yet, take one out for a test drive to see just how well it rides. You can also browse our current selection through our online showroom.
Ford versus Chevy has been an eternal question in the full-size pickup market. The battle for supremacy rages on in 2025. For truck buyers in Visalia, choosing between these two iconic brands requires understanding the strengths and weaknesses of each.
Groppetti Auto Family has put together this article to help buyers by comparing the strengths and weaknesses of Ford and Chevy’s newest releases, the 2025 Ford F-150 and the 2025 Chevy Silverado.
Power and Performance: Comparing the 2025 Ford F-150 vs. the 2025 Chevy Silverado
The 2025 Ford F-150 has an impressive engine lineup, with the turbocharged EcoBoost V6 options punching far above their weight class:
- 2.7L EcoBoost V6 – 325 horsepower and 400 lb-ft of torque
- 5.0L V8 – 400 horsepower and 410 lb-ft of torque
- 3.5L EcoBoost V6 – 400 horsepower and 500 lb-ft of torque
- 3.5L PowerBoost Full Hybrid V6 – 430 horsepower and 570 lb-ft of torque
- 5.2L Supercharged V8 (Raptor R) – 720 horsepower and 640 lb-ft of torque
The 2025 Chevrolet Silverado counters with its own capable engine lineup:
- 2.7L TurboMax – 310 horsepower and 430 lb-ft of torque
- 5.3L EcoTec3 V8 – 355 horsepower and 383 lb-ft of torque
- 6.2L EcoTec3 V8 – 420 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque
- 3.0L Duramax Turbo-Diesel – 305 horsepower and 495 lb-ft of torque
The F-150 slightly edges out the Silverado with a maximum tow rating of 13,500 pounds compared to the Chevy’s 13,300 pounds. Similarly, the Ford’s 2,455 pounds of payload gives it the edge over the Silverado’s 2,260.
Safety, Features, and Reliability
As the focus on safety becomes of greater concern, both trucks deliver with impressive features:
Ford F-150 Safety Features:
- Ford Co-Pilot360 with automatic emergency braking
- Available BlueCruise hands-free driving (works while towing)
- BLIS (Blind Spot Information System) with trailer coverage
- 360-degree camera system
- Available onboard scales to prevent overloading
Chevrolet Silverado Safety Features:
- Chevy Safety Assist standard on all trims
- Available Super Cruise hands-free driving on 400,000+ miles of roads
- Up to 14 available camera views for trailering
- Trailer Side Blind Zone Alert
- Teen Driver technology
Technology is similar across both models. Each features wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto support. Driving those features is a 12-inch touchscreen system on the Ford and a 13.4-inch screen on the Chevy.
Pricing and Fuel Economy
Each truck comes in a range of models to accommodate various needs and budgets. Select model pricing is presented below:
2025 Ford F-150:
- Base XL: $39,245
- XLT: $45,695
- Lariat: $58,360
- King Ranch: $67,905
- Platinum: $70,905
- Platinum Plus: $76,700
2025 Chevrolet Silverado:
- Work Truck: $37,645
- Custom: $43,500
- LT: $48,395
- RST: $51,395
- LTZ: $57,295
- High Country: $64,695
The comparison is split on fuel economy. The Ford 2.7L EcoBoost excels in the city, while the Chevy Duramax Diesel gets the advantage on the highway:
- F-150 PowerBoost Hybrid: 22 mpg city / 24 mpg highway
- F-150 2.7L EcoBoost: 19 mpg city / 25 mpg highway
- Silverado Duramax Diesel: 23 mpg city / 33 mpg highway (2WD)
- Silverado TurboMax: 20 mpg city / 22 mpg highway (4WD)
Getting Down to the Brass Tacks
Both trucks are powerhouses, delivering exceptional capabilities. The F-150 excels with higher towing capacity. It also offers innovative features, such as a built-in Pro Power generator to turn your truck into a mobile power supply. Meanwhile, the Silverado has excellent highway fuel economy from its diesel engine and a lower starting price.
In the end, your choice comes down to priorities: maximum capability and technology innovation (F-150) or highway efficiency and value (Silverado).
Experience the Ride at Gropetti Auto Family in Visalia
Reading specs is one thing, but experiencing the truck firsthand is the best way to decide which one will be more at home in your driveway. To see everything the F-150 has to offer, come down to Visalia Ford for a test drive today, or visit our online showroom to see what we have in stock.
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Family Day Trips Near Visalia
Visalia, CA is a fun, vibrant city and a great place to call home. This beautiful city hosts many events throughout the year, including an Oktoberfest festival two days before the start of fall. If you’re wondering how you can best enjoy the third season of the year, keep reading to learn about some of the best fall activities you can drive to nearby.
3 Fall Activities You Can Drive to Near Visalia, CA
1. Going on a Hayride at Vossler Farms
We strongly recommend enjoying the beautiful fall weather by going on a hayride at Vossler Farms at 26773 S Mooney Blvd. From the first day of fall through Halloween, you and your family can enjoy a hayride between 10 AM and 10 PM on Saturdays or noon and 9 PM on Sundays. Hayrides are also available during the day on Tuesdays through Fridays, starting at 10 AM.
If you’re a fan of Halloween, make sure you don’t miss the Field of Screams. This frightening tour of the farm takes you down a haunted trail, and there is no telling what lurks in the dark just beyond your field of view.
Read the rest of this entry »Does Your Ford Need Brake Repair?
Ideally, drivers should have their brakes serviced at least twice a year. Needless to say, the brakes are the last car part you’d want to have malfunctioning while on the road. If you ever find the following signs of wear and tear in your brakes, don’t hesitate to visit your local Ford dealer for brake repair.
Does Your Ford Need a Brake Repair?
Tugging to One Side
Brake problems rarely develop on both sides of the car at once, so when one of your brake mechanisms has a fault, you might notice the car pulling slightly to one side when you slow or stop your car. The tugging will usually be to the opposite side of the problematic brake component.
Read the rest of this entry »2023 Ford F-150 Features & Guide
Seating up to six passengers and ready to tackle city streets, highways, and off-road terrains, the 2023 Ford F-150 is now available here at your local Ford dealer with both two- and four-door models to choose from. Along with strong engine performance, this edition integrates cutting-edge technology and first-class luxury amenities throughout its cabin, ensuring every journey is an enjoyable one. Our service team is here to help you keep your F-150 running at its best.
Your Guide to the 2023 Ford F-150 at Your Ford Dealer
Versatile Performance
With this edition of the F-150, a wide array of stunning engines is offered, with both V6 and V8 engines available. If you’re looking for pure muscle, you’ll easily be impressed with the 700-horsepower supercharged V8 that’s available for the F-150 Raptor. If fuel efficiency is your priority, you’ll find it in the hybrid V6, which still offers excellent performance with 430 horses.
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As fun to drive as it is stylish, the 2023 Ford Escape is a two-row SUV that combines versatile performance with first-class comfort features. Now available here at your local Ford dealer, this edition aims to please everyone by also offering plenty of innovative technology, from its sensor-based safety systems to its many entertainment options, making it ideal for just about every occasion.
At a Glance: The 2023 Ford Escape at Your Ford Dealer
Engines and Fuel Efficiency
Three engines and four powertrain options are available for this edition of the Escape, as well as an available all-wheel drive system that allows you to easily venture off-road when you need to. The three engine options include a 180-horsepower 1.5-liter, a 250-horsepower 2.0-liter, and a 2.5-liter hybrid engine that delivers 210 horses and comes with your choice of either a regular hybrid or plug-in hybrid powertrain.
Regardless of which engine you go with, all provide excellent fuel efficiency, though the 2.5-liter with the plug-in hybrid option will save you the most money at the gas pump, as it allows you to get an estimated 101 MPGe on city streets and highways when using both fuel and electric energy.
Read the rest of this entry »How Often Should You Change the Oil of Your Ford
If you don’t know when your last oil change was, then you’re probably due to get one soon. You need to make sure you visit your Ford dealership to get your oil replaced regularly so you can keep your vehicle running smoothly. Different vehicles can need changes at different intervals, so let’s go into this in more detail.
How Often You Should Be Getting an Oil Change at the Ford Dealership
Recent Ford models are equipped with an Intelligent Oil Life Monitor, so you don’t need to keep track of how often you get the oil replaced. Your vehicle monitors the oil level and alerts you when the level is getting low. A message will appear in your digital display letting you know that you need to head to the dealer to get your oil replaced as soon as you can.
If you have an older Ford model, then it may not have this monitor built in. In this case, you need to keep an eye on your mileage and visit the dealer on a mileage-based schedule. Ford vehicles generally need to get their oil replaced every 5,000 miles, and that comes down to getting it changed about twice a year. If you drive more than 10,000 miles in a year, then you may need more than two annual oil changes.
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