How To Get Your Car Ready for Winter

  Crazy to think that we are only a few months away from the new year! Now is the time to run

through your Winter Vehicle Checklist and make sure your car is ready for any possible wintery

weather conditions. Here's a list of things to update or check:

1) Tires

Every driver knows that Winter means slippery roads, as well as, potholes...and those summer tires just won't do the trick.

2) Rust-proofing

I had this done to my car and let me tell you, I feel better knowing that the bottom of my car won't rust or erode no matter how much snow is on the ground!

3) Coolant/Anti-freeze

Get this updated, so your car won't overheat!

4) Check ALL fluids

5) Keep an emergency container or book bag of necessities!

You can purchase these online or you can put together a bag of thick clothing, bottles of water, jumper cable, first aid kit, battery operated radio, flashlight with extra batteries, snack food (energy bars), etc.

Follow these steps and this winter will be enjoyable and safe for you and the whole family!

Fred Martin Ford's Fall 2017 Commercial

Check out our latest television ad! Just in time for high school, college, and professional football season! Offers end soon, so stop in today!

Take a First Look at the 2018 Ford F-150!

We're already in August of 2017 and that means it's almost time to bring in the new 2018 Ford models! 

Earlier this week, our Professional Sales Consultants were trained on the features of the brand new 2018 Ford F-150 trucks and we couldn't be more excited to give you this first look! If you have any further questions, please contact one of our sales consultants and they'll be happy to answer them for you!

On Your Mark, Get Set, Race...to the Buckeye Horse Park!

Looking for a fun event on a summer Friday night? On July 21st, it's the 2nd Annual "Twilight Jumpers" Show, hosted by Buckeye Horse Park in Canfield, Ohio! This event will benefit CANTER Ohio! At this event, you can watch the top local jumpers compete for over $3,500 in purse money! The gates open to the public at 5:00 P.M. and the first class begins at 7:00 P.M.

Of course, half the fun during the summer is tailgating before the big show! There will be a prize offered to the best tailgate set up. The price to tailgate is $20/car load on the day of the event. If you want an alcohol-free spot, it is only $25!

Fred Martin Ford Mercedes will be there to join in on the fun too! While we won't be actually riding a horse, we will be featuring two of our famous F-150 trucks and one of our best Mercedes-Benz vehicles for show-goers to take a look at in between performers!

If you have any questions, please call Susan at (724) 301-1414.

Fred Martin Ford Lends A Helping Hand to Our Valley's Animal Shelter

Here at Fred Martin Ford, we love our furry friends and jump at the opportunity to give back to the community in any way we can. This Sunday, July 16th, we will be sponsoring the "Bike Show" at the West Side Cats' 6th Annual Bike Run & Summer Festival at Austintown Township Park. All proceeds from this event go to help West Side Cats.

The festival is open for the entire family and they will provide a lot of entertainment, food, and refreshments for all to enjoy! If you are participating in the Bike Run, registration starts at 9 a.m.and the fee starts at $15/bike and $5/passenger. The Bike Show is $10 and begins at 1 p.m. and ends at 5 p.m. There will be a total of 9 categories and 21 trophies will be given to the best bikes! All Motorcycles are welcome! There will be door prizes, a Chinese raffle, a 50/50 raffle, AND a prize for the Best Poker Hand.

During the bike show, the whole family can enjoy some wonderful music from Ron Hamrick as well as A.C. Jones! Entertainment starts at noon. You don't want to miss Ron Hamrick's beautiful song just for this special event!

Summer is all about fun and we hope you will come out and help your local animal shelter! If you want more information, check them out on Facebook or visit their website: www.westsidecats.org.





West Side Cats is a No-Kill Animal Shelter & Rescue, located at 2217 Mahoning Avenue in Youngstown, Ohio.

Popular Roadtrip Destinations

Summer is officially upon us! I don't know about you, but when it's summertime, I think of road trips and vacations. Also, making sure my car is in tiptop shape to travel all over the country. Here are some of my personal favorites and a few of our staff's favorite places to road trip.

1: Myrtle Beach

Who doesn't love the beach!? This destination is one of the most popular vacation spots amongst all ages. There is so much to do, especially during the hot summer months! There are many places to eat, fun resorts to stay at, occasionally a festival or two, and (the best part) all the sun you can soak in!


2: Disney

The most magical place on Earth! No matter what season it is, this is always the most popular travel destination. With multiple locations (Disney Land & Disney World), this road trip could last you hours or days. You could easily spend a week there and enjoy all your favorite Disney characters, while catching some sun. Make sure your vehicle is full of snacks for the kids and the Disney stations are on repeat.


3: Route 66

This route is also known as the Will Rodgers Highway and stretches all the way from Chicago, Illinois to Las Vegas, Nevada (2,451 miles). While it is no longer in service, Rt. 66 is still a popular historical travel destination for those who like long road trips and that tourist who likes to visit as many states as possible at one time.


4: Geneva On The Lake

Conveniently located in Geneva, Ohio in Ashtabula County, this place is known as "Ohio's paradise beach".  Not only can you spend a day at the lake, but you can walk to one of the many winery's they have along the strip. They have tours all the time and you can (responsibly) taste test their wine and food. I've been here countless times and it's always a good day to catch up on some sun without breaking the bank.

5: Cedar Point

Of course, I had to include an amusement park in here that isn't Disney or Universal Studios. Cedar Point is full of crazy rides, great food, and fun games for adults and the kids. Not only do they have rides and such, it is a popular place for Mustang drivers and they are modified to drag cars.

What You Need to Know About Ford Roadside Assistance

 

When it comes to roadside assistance through Ford, the first thing you need to know is what exact kind of coverage you have based upon the vehicle that you drive. For customers who have a Ford that is a 2007 or newer, the warranty is a little bit more flexible at 5 years or 60,000 miles. If you are a customer who has a Ford that is a 2006 or earlier, then your warranty is at 3 years or 36,000 miles.

The benefits that we give our amazing customers through the roadside assistance program are towing to the nearest Ford dealership within 35 miles, a battery jumpstart, flat tire change, fuel delivery and lock out assistance.  So when untimely events get you down, you know that you can count on Ford to be there for you!

Therefore the question is, how do you take advantage of these perks if you are stranded on the side of the road? Well, all you need to do is call the toll free number at 1-800-665-2006 and have your VIN number at the ready for the representative that answers your call. This will then give them the information that they need to know on what kind of coverage you have available to you and your vehicle. If in case your vehicle is out of warranty range, the Ford Roadside Assistance will still be available to you, but a credit card will need to be used for the one-time fee for the service in which you need.

EcoSport Set to Come to North American Market in 2018

When it comes to purchasing an SUV, the typical idea in mind is to have something with storage and capability. However, nowadays consumers are looking for something that is on the smaller side, but still has the functionality as that of an SUV. That is why in 2018, Ford is expanding the EcoSport into North America from countries such as Australia and India. This particular SUV is compact in size, but packs a punch when it comes to the technology and comfort within.

Athletic and lean in design, the EcoSport is bound to make a powerful mark in the North American market with its innovative "Blind Spot Information System" which alerts the driver when other vehicles are located in their blind spots. Another wonderful feature is SYNC 3 which allows for Apple and Android users to connect their cellular devices to the vehicle for added features such as voice recognition,  CarPlay, navigation, a WIFI Hotspot, Bluetooth, SYNC Connect and FordPass.

 With all of these amazing features, what more could consumers want out of a vehicle? Well, we are not done just yet! The EcoSport contains an eight inch LCD touchscreen which makes all of the features previously mentioned just that much easier to utilize. FWD, heated seats, a moonroof and an automatic start/stop system are also integrated to make the ride just that more comfortable.

So with an all inclusive SUV that packs a punch with technology and comfortableness, but compact in size,  what more could you want and need? The answer is simple: nothing.

New EcoBoost Engine Making Headway in F-Series

Back in the day, the sole purpose of purchasing a truck was to haul your heavy equipment. However, nowadays dynamics have changed and consumers are setting their sights on a truck that can get the job done, in addition to being eco-friendly.

The American Council has rated the F-150 4x2 with the 2.7 liter EcoBoost V6 engine as the only "greener choice," full sized truck. This truck is lighter, stronger, has an aluminum-alloy body and an MPG of 19 city/26 highway. This new EcoBoost engine is the smallest that the F-Series has seen in 68 years. 325 horsepower is created and  automatic start and stop is embedded for added technology. Having this engine in your truck allows for heavier hauling as it can carry up to a 11,300 pound capacity. In addition, the 2.7 liter engine utilizes a compacted graphite iron block for extra durability.

Another prospect aside from the innovative technology is to consider future gas prices when shopping for a new truck. Looking forward into the rest of 2017 and into 2018, the U.S. Energy Information Administration is expecting natural gas prices to average around $3.55 MMBtu (Million British Thermal Units) in 2017 and escalate to $3.73 MMBtu in 2018. This forecast is up from an average of $2.57 MMBtu for the years of 2015 and 2016.

Analyzing this data it is easy to see that gas prices will be rising within the next two years. Therefore, when shopping for your next Ford truck, it would be highly beneficial to choose one with an EcoBoost engine so that you, the consumer, could put some money back in your pocket.

With technology like this, it is easy to see why for 40 years the F-Series has been the best selling truck in America and will surely continue to do so with the innovative and cost efficient technology as that of the EcoBoost engine.

Ford Impacting Breast Cancer Patients in a Powerful Way

 

                For 23 years The Ford Motor Company has created a fund, "Warriors in Pink," to help breast cancer patients, survivors and co-survivors come together to fight against this horrible epidemic. The "Warriors in Pink" Fund donates 100% of the proceeds from their apparel line to four breast cancer charities so that the recipients may be able to live their lives to the fullest, while battling this disease. The fund also runs a "Models of Courage" campaign which highlights survivors and gives the world a glimpse into their lives during and/or after fighting breast cancer. This campaign features what these survivors do for a living, how long they have been in remission and gives a Q&A so that the world may relate to them on a more personal level and for everyone to see that they have not allowed what has happened to them define who they are.

                One of the particular Models of Courage is Tony Savage, former 49 year old pro football player from San Diego, California. Tony discovered that he had cancer when he had been involved in an automobile accident and mentioned to the doctor that he had noticed a lump in his breast. In a fight to get rid of the cancer, Tony and his doctors opted to perform a mastectomy in addition to six rounds of chemotherapy.  In a testimonial discussing his diagnosis, he stated, "none of those injuries (while playing football) can come close to what your body goes through after you undergo chemotherapy." He says that without the support from his family and friends, he would have not been able to get through his darkest hours. Tony has happily been a breast cancer survivor for three years. Reading Tony's story shows that this disease does not discriminate against age or gender, but instead can alter any one particular individual's life dramatically.

                 In efforts to keep patients upbeat throughout their diagnosis, the "Warriors in Pink" also give their audience helpful tips to stay positive through their fight, healthy recipes and resourceful information to stay strong and fight on! A great testimonial of continuing to stay positive throughout her fight is Karen Sherrod from Acworth, Georgia who has was diagnosed in 2008. She is an accountant and mother of two who says that time is her most treasured possession.  Throughout her fight she has looked up to her mother who was also diagnosed with breast cancer and fortunately beat it. To keep in a positive state of mind she loves to plant flowers because she says that it gives her complete peace.

                 So if you would like more information on how you can donate, purchase apparel and impact the lives of those just like Tony and Karen's in a positive way, please visit the website at www.warriorsinpink.ford.com

Spring Driving

It is often said that “April showers bring May flowers”, which is certainly true.  Another thing the April moisture offers us is adverse driving conditions.  Thawing snow can cause icy patches especially in shady areas, on bridges and on overpasses.  Those hazards combined with rain water caused by all of that April inclemency can make driving situations treacherous.  The roads become even more ferocious when rain and melting ice mixes with the oil and grind already entrenched on the streets.  Thankfully there are some things you can do to prepare yourself for Spring driving season so you may enjoy one of the more refreshing times of the year without incident.

One major rule, which is standard for all seasons, is to maintain the proper tire pressure. When our tires are correctly inflated it helps us drive steadier and not slip and slide all over our streets.  Finding the amount of air your tire keeps is easy when you refer to your vehicle's owner's manual.  Speaking of tires, you should never get tired of rotating them every 5000 miles.  That will keep equal tread on them and keep you driving safer.  All tires should have at least 2/32 inch of depth on them to be considered good driving shape.  A good rule of thumb is to have your tires checked at the beginning of each new season, or if you don't put as many miles on your car as most drivers, each time you get your oil changed.  Then you can think of it as taking “your baby” out for a drink and some new shoes!

Large puddles can also make Spring driving disastrous.  Splashing water adversely affects your breaks not to mention it impairs both you and other driver's vision.  It is difficult at times to see these puddles while driving at night in the rain.  That's why it is sage advice to have all of your lights checked before headed out of the garage.  Those lights include headlights, tail lights, break lights, reflectors and turn signals.  In other words, make sure it blinks so you don't sink!  Having your wiper blades in nice working order goes hand in hand with keeping your lights shining.  Any reputable service representative can tell you if your car's blades are acceptable, but basically if you can't see where you are going in a rainstorm you should probably consider changing your wiper blades.  Remember, people are hard to see in rain and fog so you don't need any added obstacles reducing your chances of avoiding a horrible accident.

Not all Spring driving is done in stormy settings.  This season is synonymous with sunshine and warmer days and that means more people are out and about.  Be leery of individuals who are out jogging or walking.  Many neighborhoods do not furnish its friends with sidewalks so the street is the only pavement those people have to trot on.  Although there are beautiful bike paths in a lot of metropolis', bikers still need to get to those private paths or just choose to ride around the block.  Slow down when you see your mountain bike brothers and sisters.  Boys on bigger bikes are also more prevalent in the pretty weather. Make sure you allow motorcyclists the same honors you would any other motor vehicle operator.  Of course, kids come out of their caves once the sun starts shining and they are usually careless when it comes to playing outside.  Be on the lookout for youngsters running into the streets, especially when chasing toys are balls they are kicking around.  All of the early season rain also leads to our lawns becoming lusher so be sure to pay attention to those people mowing their grass.  As is the case for all of the above mentioned groups, lawn manicurists many times where headsets or ear buds to avoid the noise and listen to soothing music.  While those tunes may tickle their fancy they may also put their minds in other dimensions, places where paying attention to cars is unnecessary.  Lawn cutting service trucks and trailers are a staple of the season and are parked in areas that can be dangerous.  Slow down and be extra sure there is no oncoming traffic before moving around these large obstructions.  Be careful to avoid any unwanted flying objects shooting loose from the lawnmower too.  These UFO's don't carry martians, but can carry heavy insurance claims if they strike your windshield.

People are not the only creatures that are crawling around in the Spring.  Animals that have been sleeping all winter are eager to roam the roads in freedom.  That freedom does not include being squashed by our newly inflated tires.  Stay clear of animals big and small so they can enjoy their months of not being in a somnambulist state.  If people and pets are at peace, you can be too as the Spring season saunters into Summer.

Avoiding Potholes To Avoid Large Problems

Most everyone is familiar with that annoying house guest who comes to stay for a few days then ends up staying for months.


To us drivers, those unwanted visitors are the potholes that appear at the end of each winter and never seem to leave until the temperatures routinely reach the upper 80's. Not only are these potholes so ugly they make our streets look like some undiscovered planet from a science fiction movie, they are also very dangerous to commuters. So dangerous, in fact, that drivers appear as if they are playing a real life version of Frogger when avoiding these craters.


Potholes are caused by relentless freezing and thawing of water under pavement. Those continuous actions weakens our roads. Combine the freezing and thawing with the weight of the vehicles driving over the streets and the age of those streets and you have a recipe for driving disaster. Making matters even worse is that potholes come in more sizes than a pie from your favorite local pizza joint. There are tiny, small, medium, large, extra large, double extra large and some that are so big you expect them to have their own zip code. Unfortunately, these potholes don't discriminate either so it doesn't matter if you are driving a clunker or a $75,000 luxury auto......if you nail one of these holes your car is in big trouble. Potholes have been known to
cause structural damage to your tire(s), alignment problems, tire blowout and axle problems. Amazingly a pothole can cause as much damage to a car as a car crash at 35mph. Sometimes the impact can be so great it triggers the release of the car's airbags.


If you recently nailed one of these pains in the road and think that nothing has happened to your vehicle, don't be fooled. Your car may act normally the rest of that drive, but the next time you need to hit the road, the residual affect of the pothole damage may hit you back. If your car pulls (indicating alignment problems), if you have uneven tire wear, if the tire pressure is consistently low, if your tires bulge or blister, if you find dents in the wheel rims, if your car sways when making turns or if you feel excessive bouncing on clean roads, a pothole may have attacked your car.


Although it may seem as if there is no hope once you've been bitten by one of these monsters, there are steps you can take before you take to the road that may act as protection for your vehicle. The most important safety tip is to keep your car's tires properly inflated. That will help your rubber friends make enemies of the potholes. Look inside your front car door or refer to your owner's manual for proper inflation weight for your tires. Slowing down when approaching a huge hole is another helpful tip and when you are over the hole do not break because that can only lead to more damage. Make sure to hold your steering wheel firmly when hitting a pothole so you don't lose control of your car. Another sage piece of advice is to not be fooled by a puddle of water. Many times, those puddles are just masking those pesky potholes acting as Sirens luring your car to a rocky shipwreck. Finally, make sure to leave proper distance between you and the car in front of you so, just in case that car suddenly stops at the sight of a pothole, you don't end up with front end damage and an insurance claim to add to your troubles.


Speaking of the insurance companies, they usually do all they can to help you if your car has been hurt by a hole. Read over the fine print in your coverage documentation to see how much if any you need to pay and how much damage is covered. As far as recovering the cost of repairs from the city, county or state in which these potholes preside.....good luck! It is not a sure thing that any aid will be afforded to you. It all depends on where you live. Before filing a complaint, be positive what governing branch is in charge of the road where you hit the hole so you don't waste time complaining to the state when it's the county's jurisdiction for example. By the way, don't assume that if you drive on the opposite side of the road to avoid a pothole and a police officer stops you you'll escape without getting a ticket. In most circumstances, riding on the wrong side of the street is still a driving offense so you better find a very compassionate cop that will let you go free of a fine.


Thankfully, many of these holes are starting to be filled so flip a tip of your cap to the local city/county/state worker who is out there sweating behind a truck full of very hot patch. Meanwhile, to the potholes that still linger and await to cause headaches to both you and your beloved vehicle, flip those beasts something else.

Tips on achieving the best possible gas mileage for your car

Local gas prices were hovering a few pennies above $2 per gallon during the last week of February.

As we entered March, the price of fuel came roaring in like a lion moving up to almost $2.50 per gallon in some places. With Spring quickly approaching, one would figure that the sub $3 per gallon price may seem like a pittance compared to how high it may ascend. That's why getting the most gas mileage out of our cars is extremely important.

Prudent shoppers list gas mileage at the top of their agendas when purchasing a new car. The only proof we have of how much gas your potential vehicle will use is either by word of mouth from the salesperson or by looking at the EPA's fuel estimations on the window sticker. Although you may be satisfied with the numbers you were told or read, those figures do not always match the actual gas mileage you get after making that car your own. Is this a case of being betrayed? Not really. It's just that a myriad of factors can alter the numbers you once believed to be gospel.

With limited resources the EPA does not have the time nor essentials to monitor the gas mileage of every single car in circulation. For that reason, the EPA have entrusted each individual auto maker with the task of testing their vehicles and presenting buyers with their findings. The reality is, however, that if one car is said to get 30 miles per gallon, but only gets 25 and another one is said to get 20 mpg, but only gets 15, you will still be getting better gas mileage out of the one that is higher.

Usually, the gas mileage on the window sticker or what is told to you by your salesperson is used as a comparison against other cars - not as a guarantee. Technology was modified in 2008 to keep up with the advancement made in vehicle production, especially with the abundance of hybrids that have hit the road, but it isn't perfect yet. Results can vary depending on the driver who is operating the car, the type of vehicle (for example is it the standard class of that particular car or is it the top model) and driving conditions. Also, the extra features your car possesses such as a luggage rack, a bike rack or extra cargo can skew the printed gas totals.

Thankfully there are a few things you can do to better your gas mileage and get it as close to the sticker numbers as possible:

1. Try to keep your car free of excess baggage (that doesn't mean to leave your significant other at home)
2. Avoid fast accelerations in your car (it uses 3 times the amount of gas)
3. Keep all 4 tires at proper pressure
4. Make sure to keep the spark plugs clean
5. Use an octane booster every so often (1 ounce of booster per 1 gallon of gas)
6. Do routine oil changes (usually every 5000-7500 miles)
7. Try to pass cars only on flat surfaces or down hill (never pass going up hill) and attempt passes while on the move not from a dead stop
8. When traveling at speeds above 55 mph, have the side windows up because wind can hit the back glass slowing your vehicle down (I know right??!!)
9. Do not allow your car to idle for long periods of time
10. Once you hit your desired speed maintain it (using cruise control on long trips is helpful too)
11. Route your trip (especially when running errands around town) so you are not making several trips to same area or stopping a lot at traffic lights
12. Do the normal engine maintenance

A trusted salesperson most likely would have gone over a lot of these suggestions if he or she was asked. That same person wants to make your buying experience an excellent one and wants you to return so it's a good bet that deceiving you about the gas mileage you'll be getting is not part of the selling strategy.

If you follow some of the provided tips it's safe to say you won't be getting gassed the next time you look for a fuel efficient vehicle.

If you have any additional questions, feel free to contact Fred Martin's service department at 330-793-2444.

Warranty Scams: What you need to know

You may have recently received a letter, a postcard, an email or a phone call that looks or sounds very important concerning "your expiring auto warranty."

That eye-catching correspondence usually has the words "final notice" attached to it aimed at forcing you into a panic. When we are harried like that a lot of us tend to make irrational decisions. In this case, that bad move is to shell out our hard earned money on something that really doesn't help us at all.

Car warranty scams are something that have increased greatly over the past few years. The Better Business Bureau reported last year that over 1200 complaints were made to its company about predatory extended auto warranty companies. Those evil outfits are especially on the prowl during income tax refund season because they know most of us have extra money to spend. The last thing you want to do in February or March is fork over the federal money you banked in the previous 11 months to sleezy scam artists. If you don't want that to happen, read the next few paragraphs carefully so you can recognize when a warranty is warranted.

The best warranties to purchase are the extended ones offered through your local car dealership or a another reputable party who works in conjunction with your car dealer of choice. Later, you can read the factors that make up the best extended warranties, but first let's seize these scammers.

A third party scammer has no direct business relationship with the product it covers....namely your car! A manufacturer's warranty uses original parts on your car and factory trained technicians to tend to it. There is no such attention to detail by these third parties. When a telemarketer calls you about extending the warranty on your vehicle please excuse yourself from the call. Telemarketers should never be calling on behalf of a warranty company and in some instances they may be breaking FCC rules. The caller should always provide his/her name, the name of the business they represent and the number should appear on your caller I.D. If a message is left, the caller must identify the business represented and leave a return phone number. In the case of a warranty scam artist, these steps are grossly skipped. If you do choose to talk to these "helpers" please never provide any personal information. If you get a letter or post card in the mail that has the looks of something official you can either use it to help keep the flames roaring in your fireplace or you can call the sales associate or dealership you bought your car from and ask them about it. If you bought your car from a private dealer then you know for certain that this piece of mail is junk. An email from a scamming company like this usually will fall into your junk mail where it actually belongs, but in the case it doesn't, there is no reason to respond to it unless it came from your sales associate or dealership. Also, be leary of any company that provides "limited time offers" or trashes another company's reputation on its advertisements. That's not only tacky, but it also screams scam!

As mentioned previously, the best extended warranties are bought at the dealer or through an organization that your dealer recognizes. The average cost of a warranty is between $700-$2000 depending how in depth you want to go. If you want the extra protection, make sure you know just what is covered by it and what isn't. There are six things to look for that are vital to have if you are buying an extended warranty. That sensational sextet are: using a company that allows repairs at any ASE certified shop, choosing a warranty that pays the entire bill for you up front and doesn't make you pay for it first then wait for reimbursement, make sure the warranty is transferable if you sell your car, demand that the warranty takes effect the day you purchase it, check that the company you buy from is highly insured and uses a top rated insurer for their "claims reserve account" and be positive that you can cancel your warranty within 30-60 days if you decide to and receive a 100% refund.

No matter which warranty you choose it will still behoove you to do the routine maintenance on your vehicle as scheduled and to keep proof of that work. Some companies, even if they are trustworthy, will use the excuse of a lack of maintenance as a way to weasel out of doing repairs.

If you feel you have been the victim of a warranty scam by a telemarketer and want to file a complaint you may contact the FCC at: fcc.gov/complaints or call 1-888-callfcc (225-5322). You may also contact your local Better Business Bureau to investigate any info you receive in the mail.

Getting your oil changed at your local dealership versus your local quick lube

Going to the dentist is a biannual event that most of us despise doing.

The automotive equivalent of getting your teeth pulled is taking your beloved vehicle in for an oil change. One of the main reasons this task inflicts so much pain on us the consumer is that we really aren't sure what is best for "our babies" when it becomes time to make that change. There is a small percentage of car enthusiasts who are very adept at, and find it very enjoyable, to do their own oil changing. For the rest of us who are not so mechanically savvy, there are questions that need to be answered before sinking our hard earned money into lubing our cars.

Years ago, about the only place to take your car for a complete oil change was the dealer where you purchased your prized possession. Over the past couple decades more and more quick lube shops have popped up offering ten minute service while you sat in your car and, more importantly, discounted prices. It's hard to determine which avenue is the better one driven, but there are some things you should consider before choosing between the dealer and "Mr. Quickie."

Money, as is usually the case, is a great place to start this conversation. A normal oil change will cost anywhere between $19.99 and $39.99. Now there are exceptions such as the sensible shopper who clips coupons that may save them as much as 20%, to the paranoid person who always seems to think what they are receiving in service is never enough and tends to buy "add ons" that increase the final total. For argument's sake let's assume the average cost for an oil change will be $30.

So what should I expect for that decent sized fee? No matter where your oil change is done, it should always include a few standard procedures. The mechanical metamorphosis will start with draining the old engine oil. Removal of the old oil filter and replacing that dirty part with a new one will be the next step. A new crush washer should now be installed followed by proper torquing of the drain plug. One important detail to remember is that the new oil that is poured into your engine should always be filled at proper weight. We are now out with the old and in with the new.

While staying strapped in your seat and spending less time getting your car serviced than it normally takes to get through a Starbucks drive-thru may sound appealing, waiting at the dealership does have its advantages. First off, most dealerships are equipped with state-of-the-art waiting rooms that offer big screen televisions, comfortable leather chairs and free wi-fi. Secondly, complimentary refreshments are on hand to keep you satisfied. While your sipping a soft drink and checking the internet, your vehicle is going through a thorough examination by someone who is trained to take his or her time. The specialist at the quick lube is proficient at changing oil and filters and filling tires, but the mechanic at the dealership is certified to find other things that may be happening to your car that is totally unbeknownst to you. If a part is needed to fix that unforeseen ailment, there's a great possibility it's in stock at the dealership and you won't have to come back to get it serviced again. Also, these same mechanics get paid and graded by the job meaning their performance may be taken more seriously.  Some dealerships also offer free car washes with each oil change, a discount on tire rotations and a "discount card" that has you pay for a certain amount of oil changes before receiving a free one.

If managed well, the quick lube shop is still a viable option too.  Although, a lot of dealerships offer no appointment oil changes you still may have to wait up to an hour before your car is completed. There is a lot to be said for cruising into the quick lube at lunchtime, getting the oil changed and still having time for a sandwich and fries before heading back to work. Just make sure that quick lube establishment you choose is reputable, the service technicians are knowledgeable and you get the complete service you are supposed to be getting without any up-sale.

That leads us to our final piece of advice on oil changes, which is avoiding a rip off. We all work too hard to spend our money foolishly. Spending too much when you are falsely advised it is necessary is downright aggravating. Whether you go to the quick lube or dealership, there is usually a basic oil change and a signature oil change offered. On most occasions the basic one gets the job done, but if the signature satisfies you more make sure it is worth the extra money you are spending. 

It is important that a new filter replaces the old one so before you go for the oil change put an X on the old filter with a sharpie. If the "replacement" filter still has that mark on it, make sure you speak up. If you are paying for extra services that are not part of the basic plan, get proof that those services are performed. 

The good thing these days is that, unlike in our father's time, our new cars don't need to have the oil changed before 5000-7500 miles. In most cases that cuts our trip to the quick lube or dealership's service department down to twice a year. A lot of vehicles even alert us when our oil needs replaced giving us something that is valued by us all.....one less thing to worry about.

Fred Martin's award winning service department is here to answer any additional questions you may have about your car.  Feel free to call us at 330.793.2444.

2015 Ford Fiesta Review

It is said that the best things come in small packages and that statement is spot on when describing the 2015 Ford Fiesta.

The newly redesigned Fiesta has combined attractiveness and power with a price tag that won't send you into sticker shock. Fiesta is ranked in the top three of most affordable subcompact cars. The starting MSRP on the base model is just $13,965, not too shabby for a car that seats up to five people. All of those passengers will be amazed by the high quality interior and well built cabin. Whoever is lucky enough to be the co-pilot will appreciate the spacious and comfortable front seats and plenty of leg room.

Everybody who drives the 2015 Fiesta will feel power usually saved for vehicles much larger and definitely more pricey. For the first time in Fiesta history there is a model with an optional 3-cylinder, 1.0L turbocharged engine that provides plenty of punch when your foot hits the gas pedal. It is fueled by direct injection, 123 HP and 125 LBS of torque. That motor was voted 2014 International Engine of the Year. The Fiesta ST model has a turbocharged 4-cylinder, 1.6L EcoBoost engine that ups the ante on the acceleration of the 3-cylinder to even greater heights. That same force can be found in Fiesta's SE and Titanium models as well. No matter which Fiesta you feast your hands on, you will have the luxury of 28 MPG in the city and a whopping 36 MPG on the highway. So while your Fiesta will be small and compact, your wallet will be overstuffed with all the money you'll save on gas!

Now that you have your Fiesta filled with fuel you will want to drive it all over to show off to your friends. Of course, in this era where we can turn on our house lights from our phones, nobody will be impressed with your car unless it has the latest technology. Thankfully, this 2015 Fiesta is chalk full of gadgets. It all starts when you enter your vehicle using the optional intelligent access with push button start. This gives the Fiesta owner the ability to open the driver's door and start the car with the key securely stuffed in one's pocket. If you allow a friend or family member the pleasure of driving your new Fiesta, Ford's MyKey option encourages responsible driving by limiting top speeds and decreasing audio noise when your guest driver gets behind the wheel. There is also an optional rear view camera with reverse sensing system for helpful backup assistance to anyone who is driving. Another cool feature is the automatic headlamps that activate when wipers are in motion. As in other Ford vehicles, some of these new Fiesta's offer the owner the SYNC system with MyFord Touch. This phenomenal feature comes with a 6.5 inch LCD touch screen, SYNC voice activation, available navigation, SD card reader and 2 USB ports. The Titanium model also has a premium Sony audio system.

We know that those interior features are music to one's ears, but the Fiesta's exterior is pretty fabulous too. The 15 inch wheels on the base model are spunky and cute and make a great little brother to the sweet looking 17 inch painted aluminum wheels that decorate the Titanium model. Those wheels are accompanied by dual chrome exhaust, front fascia lower extensions and side rocker molding. Sport tuned suspension and advance trac with electronic stability control are a couple of other features of the Titanium, which provides a nice balance to its 197 HP and 202 LBS of torque. You can also choose a rear spoiler and a fancier grill on the Fiesta Titanium making it look way more expensive than just the $17,915 you spent on it. Ambient lighting in all Fiesta models starting with the SE enhance the spotlight that is placed on this incredible vehicle.

One last thing that is great about the 2015 Fiesta is that even though it has upgraded considerably from year's past, it hasn't forgotten where it came from. Once again in 2015, you will be able to purchase the Fiesta in a hatchback model. The hatchback comes in four variations starting with the base S at just $14,365 and climbing to the ST type, which you can buy for only $20,945. A unique feature of the ST model is that it is the only Fiesta that can be found in the color Molten Orange. Talk about juicing up the excitement level! You may go to many parties in your lifetime, but none will share the thrill you will have everyday when you climb into your very own Fiesta!

The Benefits and Differences Between Buying and Leasing a New Car

Growing up the daughter of a used car dealer, it was instilled into me that you always buy a car - a used car - because it’s the best investment for your money.  From age 16 until now (I’m 26), I’ve had 5 different cars...all used of course.  And they truly were good investments.  I bought them at a great price (thanks to dad) and I was able to sell them in a few years and get back almost what I paid for them.  It worked for me and it works for a lot of people.  

Now that I work at a new car dealership, the temptation of a shiny new car is always around me.  I decided to step out of my comfort zone and lease a new Fusion.  It was pretty terrifying at first, I’m not gonna lie, but once I sat down and thought through the logistics I felt a lot better.  Next to your house payment, most peoples’ highest monthly payment goes to their car - so obviously it’s a huge investment and shouldn’t be taken lightly.  Each option has benefits, and each option would be appealing to different people for different reasons.  If you’re like many car buyers who haven’t tried leasing, you may not truly understand how it works and what it has to offer.  Continue reading.

Payment:  When a payment is figured on a lease, the dealer is basing it on what’s called a “residual” value, or what the manufacturer determines the vehicle to be worth at the end of the term of the lease.  So if it's not worth what you can buy it for, you're protected to not have to own it. Therefore the payment is generally lower because you’re paying on a percentage of the vehicle as opposed to when you purchase a car, you’re paying on the entire amount of the vehicle.  

Warranty:  On a short term lease, you’ll be under the full warranty for the entire duration of your lease.  On a purchase, depending on how long you keep your car, you’ll be under the manufacturers warranty until it expires and then you’ll be responsible for any repairs from that point forward.

Options:  When your lease expires, you have 3 options.  1. You can lease a different car.  You’ll start over with the full warranty plus you’ll have the latest and greatest of what’s out there.  2. You can purchase the car you just finished leasing.  Maybe you really love the car and don’t want to see it go - then just buy it!  You’ll pay the value that was locked in at the beginning of the lease (the purchase option price).  3. You can simply walk away.  Maybe you decided you didn’t want to lease again and just wanted to go in a different direction; it’s all good!  When you purchase a car, you will pay for it until you’ve satisfied your loan and then it’s all yours.

So like I said earlier, both leasing and buying has its advantages and each one appeals to different buyers.  Talking to a sales professional about your options is always a good idea.  After all, it’s what they’ve made their career out of and they can give you all the information you need to make a well informed decision.

So whether you decide you want to lease a new car, or purchase a new or used one, all of us at Fred Martin Ford are eager to help you drive away with your perfect vehicle!

2015 Ford Mustang Review

The 2015 Ford Mustang has been fully redesigned from end to end in order to make itself even more attractive to a worldwide audience.

That doesn't mean, however, that the new Mustang doesn't stay true to its roots. The 2015 Mustang is still as American as granny's freshly baked apple pie, but has enhanced itself greatly. Now it brings the iconic pony car into a more fuel efficient future without sacrificing any of the trademark swagger or performance that we all have fallen in love with. This Mustang offers a best in class 21 MPG in the city and an astounding 32 MPG on the highway for a combined 25 MPG. In other words, you can truly lead this horse to water (or the gas pump), but you can't make it drink.

J.D. Power and Associates has given the 2015 Mustang a top rating in all reliability categories including powertrain, body and interior. None of the five types of Mustang parked in the stable has an engine with less than 300 HP. The most standard model, the V6 Fastback, is loaded with a 3.7L/V6 and can be taken home for as little as $23,600. The first ever 2.3L EcoBoost engine can be found in the Eco Fastback and Eco Premium models for just $2000-$4000 more. At $32,100, the galloping GT Fastback burns up the road with a 5.0L/V8 and carries a Herculian 435 HP with 400LBS of torque. Larger intake valves and exhaust valves makes this type of engine possible. At the top of the Mustang food chain is the ultra-powerful GT Premium priced at a reasonable $36,100.

Whichever Mustang model you prefer, you will not feel like you are driving an ordinary vehicle. Everyday you drive your new Mustang it will feel like "Throwback Thursday" due to the return of the old fastback roofline. Yet, the 2015 stays contemporary with modern sheetmetal surfacing and features such as HID headlights. Also featured in the 2015 is an all new fully independent double ball joint front and rear suspension, improved pitch control during hard acceleration and braking and less body roll.

The interior goes retro with the familiar dual-cowl dashboard and large circular gauges, but the rest of the inside is redesigned to allow you to feel that you are seated in the cockpit of a stealth fighter jet. Flat toggle switches have been added to the center stack of the console to give it a sporty,fancier look and to give you easy access to four selectable drive modes. Large instruments and robust round vents accentuate the interior.

A 6-speed manual transmission is standard in all 2015 Mustangs because, really, who doesn't want to shift this magnificent machine themselves? Other optional equipment includes: intelligent access with push start, illuminated entry, enhanced 6-way leather trimmed power seats, Shaker pro audio with 12 speakers, subwoofer and amp, launch control, dual-zone temperature control and BLIS with cross traffic alert. The wheels on this near perfect pony start at 17" and range up to 19x9". Wheel finish options are sparkle silver, black painted, gloss aluminum or ebony black aluminum depending on which model you choose.

One last thing this new Mustang offers to prove it is competitive with the times is the new mobile app. This app displays a quick start guide, a race track locator, links to Mustang's resources, a brief history of the Mustang and a tour of this venerable vehicle. Fans of the Ford Mustang are also using this app to stay connected with each other and to share stories of their beloved brand.

With a wide range of engine options, new front and rear suspension and more refined interior as some of its highlights, the 2015 Mustang easily ascends to the top of its class. The way that Ford has fused these modern upgrades with all of the classic features Mustang lovers are used to has indeed put this pony at the front of the pack. One test drive and you'll undoubtedly want to be a part of the hard-charging "Pony Express".

Preparing your Vehicle for the Winter

     With the winter months upon us, it's time to start thinking about how your car will handle the snow and ice. One of our Ford Certified Technicians wanted to share a few simple things you can do at home to double check your car if you can't make time just yet to have it inspected at your local dealership.

• Check your tire pressure and tread depth. To ensure the pressure is at a safe level, get a pressure gauge and check your tires cold - meaning before you've driven or 3 hours after you've driven - by inserting the gauge onto the valve stem on each tire. The correct pounds per square inch (psi) will be on a sticker on the inside of your driver side door. To check the tread, place a penny in-between the "ribs" of the tire (the raised portion) and turn Lincoln's head so that it points towards the tread. If you see the top of his hair disappear between the ribs, your tire tread is still above 2/32"; which is good.

• Take good care of your wiper blades - they can be your best friend. We've all been there when you're driving through a strong rain or snow storm and your wipers are going a million miles a minute (or so it seems). To ensure you're keeping them at their highest quality for the longest amount of time, be sure to separate them from the windshield before trying to turn them on if they're frozen. You can also pull them forward off the windshield before a snowfall to keep them from freezing in the first place. Lastly, be sure not to let the wipers drag across the ice on the windshield. This will cut the blades and cause them to need replaced faster.

• Be sure to check the engine coolant and fluid levels. Because of the drastic temperature changes in our area, it is recommended that you check your coolant every 30,000 miles.  If it's getting close to that time frame, it may be smart to purchase a coolant tester just to make sure everything is still in tip-top shape. In addition to checking the coolant, take a peek at the antifreeze and the oil as well. Make sure you have enough of both under the hood, especially before going on any long trips, and keep some extra in your trunk just in case.

     There's always some other little tricks you can do to keep the frustrations of the icy weather to a minimum. You can spray silicon on the weatherstrips of your doors to help keep them from freezing shut. A hair blow drier can also be utilized to un-freeze your locks. But as always, stop in and have your vehicle inspected by a Ford Certified Technician to keep it in top notch condition. We'll even throw in a free car wash to clean that annoying winter salt from your ride!  Click here to schedule an appointment with our service department.

2015 Ford Escape Review

With its athletic looks and performance to match, the 2015 Ford Escape crushes rival crossover vehicles in the same class.

About the only vehicle that rivals the 2015 Escape is the 2014 Escape. The biggest change this model year is the advancement in how user friendly the My Ford Touch has become. Before we get to that aspect of the Escape, let's "touch" on how it continues as the leader in inexpensive crossovers.

There are three available Escape models to choose from ranging in price from $22,610 MSRP up to $29,000. Starting at slightly less than $23,000 the affordable Escape S comes in a 6 speed automatic transmission and has a 2.5L Duratec engine. It has an MPG split of 22 in the city and 31 on the highway. For a couple thousand dollars more you can enjoy the Escape SE with its 23/32 MPG and powerful 1.6L EcoBoost engine. Like the S, the SE has the standard 4.2 inch rear view camera and Sync with MyFord and adds secure key-less entry, a 10-way leather trimmed power driver seat with lumbar adjust and heating capability, Sirius XM satellite radio and Blis with cross traffic alert for added driver safety. For less than $30,000 an Escape driver can step up to the Titanium which utilizes all of the features of the other two models, but also comes equipped with HD radio, a hands free lift gate, Sync with MyFord Touch and driver and passenger seats with memory. One other feature of the SE and Titanium that really shows its boldness is that both models come with available 4 wheel drive with advanced trac and roll stability and ABS. So you can get your roll on without rolling too much on the pavement!

When you or any of the other 4 passengers climb inside the new Escape it will feel as roomy as an old time station wagon. The difference, however, between the Escape and that old dinosaur will be the comfort and control-ability. The Escape drives with a car-like sportiness with crisper handling than its competition, stronger power train and responsive steering. As far as the comfort level goes, it makes creators of rival crossovers very uncomfortable. The seats on the Escape are very slim yet firm. The rear seat flips to add to the already amazing amount of cargo space. Carpeted floor mats allows your passengers to comfortably remove their shoes on long rides. Available dual zone electronic auto temperature control keeps each front seat passenger cool or warm depending on their particular preference. There is also a center floor console with an arm rest that allows the driver to store small items and drive with relaxed style without eating up too much space. Eight cup holders, cargo floor hooks and second row coat hooks are also available. The SE and Titanium models also sport a sensational power panoramic vista roof that tilts up for a quick breeze or opens fully to give you and all your mates a majestic view of the sky. As part of the vista roof the Escape also offers a fixed rear skylight for your backseat guests. So whether you are by yourself on a quick run to the grocery store or packed in with four of your friends for a weekend getaway, the 2015 Escape doesn't discriminate.

Just because this crossover is sexier than its rivals it doesn't mean it's not as safe. It received a 5 star rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Besides the advance trac and roll stability mentioned above, this Escape offers available park assist, five airbags, 4 wheel ABS, 4 wheel disc brakes with brake assist, child safety locks and traction control. Cruise control and audio controls are mounted on the leather wrapped steering wheel so drivers need not take their eyes off the road to adjust those functions. Add those features to the fun and fabulous available hands free foot activated lift gate, the heated exterior mirrors and the available rear spoiler and it's easy to realize that indeed it is the Escape owner who is truly spoiled.

Most Ford dealers have plenty of 2015's in stock so it is not too early to get a jump on your neighbors and make them jealous just in time for the Holidays. Purchase this fantastic Ford vehicle now then plan your own "escape" from boring, run of the mill crossovers!