Is It Time for an Oil Change? Ford Maintenance You Shouldn’t Ignore

At Santee Ford in Manning, SC, we want our customers to enjoy their Ford ownership experience to the fullest. That’s why we’re committed to helping them keep their Ford models in excellent condition so they can continue driving them for many years with minimal interruptions. You can count on our service techs to provide your Ford F-150, Ford Explorer, or Ford Mustang with thorough and timely service whenever you schedule an appointment with us. 

We’re here to support you as a Ford owner, and one of the ways we can do this is helping you stay on top of your vehicle’s oil changes. Learn more about why your engine needs oil, why oil changes are so important, and how to know when your vehicle is due for one. 

Oil Change Maintenance 101

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Oil is essential for your engine to function properly. It provideslubrication for the engine’s parts to reduce friction and prevent damage. Oil is also responsible for cooling and cleaning the engine. Simply put, your engine needs oil in order to run smoothly. If the oil isn’t changed when needed, the results can be disastrous. 

Oil doesn’t age well. As time passes, it loses its effectiveness and can no longer properly protect the engine. If your vehicle goes too long without an oil change, the following can occur:

• The engine can overheat
• The engine can become damaged
• Fuel efficiency can drop

There are four types of motor oil: conventional, full synthetic, synthetic blend, and high mileage. How often the oil needs to be changed will depend on the vehicle and factors like your driving habits, your vehicle’s age, and the type of oil it uses. Many vehicles can now go well beyond the old recommendation of every 3,000 miles. We recommend checking out your owner’s manual for guidance on when to change your specific Ford model’s oil, as well as what type of oil your vehicle requires. Feel free to reach out to a member of our service team as well.  

While you never want your vehicle to get to this point, here are some of the signs that your Ford needs an oil change:

• The oil is dark and dirty
• Visible smoke is coming from the exhaust pipe
• The check engine light is on
• Fuel efficiency and performance has dropped
• There’s a burning smell inside the car
• A knocking sound is coming from the engine

If your vehicle is showing one or more of these symptoms, don’t wait! Schedule an appointment with our team and we’ll be happy to handle it.

Additional Ford Maintenance Tips: Tires, Brakes, and More

An oil change isn’t the only routine service your vehicle needs to stay in optimal shape. Other routine maintenance that your Ford requires to continue performing smoothly on South Carolina roads includes tire care like tire rotations and maintaining the proper tire pressure, which help your tires last longer. Keep an eye on your tire tread too, and when it’s time for new tires, our tire experts will be here to help you choose the right ones for your model.  

It’s also important to have your brakes inspected routinely. If the brake warning light comes on, you notice squeaking or squealing sounds, or the brake pedal vibrates or feels soft when you apply pressure, make an appointment with our service team as soon as possible. 

In addition, replace the engine and cabin air filters regularly. Have your battery tested to check its performance and have it inspected to ensure that it’s free of corrosion or leaks and that all connections are secure. You’ll also want to have your Ford model’s fluid levels checked on a regular basis, including brake fluid, transmission fluid, and windshield washer fluid. Maintenance keeps your Ford healthy, so don’t put it off!

Why Choose Our Dealer Maintenance Center: The Santee Ford Advantage

The good news is that when it comes to taking care of your Ford SUV or Ford truck, you don’t have to deal with it on your own! We’ve got a team of technicians ready to handle your vehicle’s next oil change and other routine services it may need. You can rely on our certified Ford technicians to provide exceptional service and repairs in a timely manner. 

Don’t trust just anyone for your vehicle’s maintenance — trust the experts here at Santee Ford in Manning, SC, to do the job right. If your vehicle is due for an oil change or something else, book an appointment online today!

If you have questions about an issue your vehicle is experiencing, feel free to contact a member of our service team. We offer automotive service and repairs Monday through Friday and are committed to keeping your Ford running smoothly and ensuring your experience is positive every time you bring your vehicle to our service center.

If you need specific Ford parts, such as brake pads, windshield wipers, air filters, or a new battery and want to install them yourself, you can place an order through our website. Plus, our parts and service specials make taking care of your vehicle even more affordable! We look forward to serving you soon.

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