Best Ways to Disinfect Your Car? Let Your Madras Ford Dealer Show You

These days, stepping out of the house feels like entering a biohazard zone. Even a quick yet necessary drive to the store can leave you or your family exposed to the dreaded coronavirus, so knowing how to protect yourself and your family is imperative.

Want to know the best ways to get your vehicle virus-free? Your Ford dealer in Madras, OR understands it better than anyone.

What Are the Most Germ-Filled Areas in Your Car?

According to a survey by Clorox, many people believe that the steering wheel, gear shift, and door handles are the most germ-laden spots. Surprisingly, they’re not: swab tests have shown that the cup holders, air conditioning vents, and the floor mats are the top culprits in harboring bacteria, fungi, and viruses.

Since you often touch these surfaces, a good start will be to have hand sanitizer or rubbing alcohol nearby before going for a drive. Give these virus-harboring areas a pass with sanitizing wipes, and sanitize your hands as soon as you enter the vehicle.

CDC Advice on Corona-Proofing Your Car

For non-porous surfaces like the dashboard, door handles, console, armrests, seat belt buckles, and more, you can use a soap and water mixture or a diluted bleach solution. The same goes for porous areas like seats and floor mats.

Check the labels of your cleaning products on their proper use and application. Find suitable products and check if it passes the EPA standards for disinfection.

How about surfaces that can’t be scrubbed or washed? The CDC advises that a solution with at least 70% alcohol is enough to disinfect electronics like touch screens, buttons, and dials. Be sure to wipe them dry afterward with a clean cloth or paper towel.

Aside from these recommended strategies, you can take your game up a notch to ensure that your vehicle is at its cleanest. Wash your hands for at least 20 seconds with soap and water. Immediately change out of your clothes or shower if needed. Make sure that your clothes are washed and dried correctly.

Other Methods of Disinfection

Aside from these recommended strategies from the experts, you can take your game up a notch to ensure that your vehicle will be at its cleanest. Ionizers or misting devices are like fog machines that emit negatively-charged ions into the interior of your car. These microparticles bind with positively-charged microbes like bacteria, fungi, and viruses, immediately killing them and halting their reproduction.

Another tried and tested method for virus eradication is the use of ultraviolet (UV) radiation. This method involves lighting up a specialized UV lamp inside your car. UV rays can alter the genetic code of microbes like viruses, thereby keeping their infectious spreading at bay. In some cities, the government regularly deploys UV lamps to disinfect heavily-used vehicles like ambulances and police mobiles. Note that the vehicle must be free of occupants when using ionizers or UV radiation.

During a scenario such as this, safety protocols can spell the difference between life and death. Now is the right time to be extra vigilant about sanitation and disinfection, especially when it comes to the vehicles you use.Your friendly Madras Ford dealer highly encourages you to be extra careful and to be a smarter motorist. Be sure to check back with TS&S Ford for more tips to help keep your precious ride corona-free.

Trusted Ford Service near Bend OR at TS&S Ford

Search no more, Ford service near Bend OR is ready to service your vehicle. Our auto service and repair technicians are highly trained in all things automotive especially when it comes to Fords.

 

Use SYNC Connect to enable remote access to your Ford as well as to find where you parked. The app provides information and service history at your fingertips. You will get vehicle health alerts, track your fuel levels, and service reminders as needed based on your vehicle. With Ford's SYNC Connect app you can monitor and control your vehicle's start and stop, lock and unlock from anywhere, schedule a start, and check fuel and fluid levels. It allows you to compare fuel prices by grade or brand. A fast and easy way to pay for your vehicles service with FordPay stored in Wallet and pay from your FordPass app. Experts are ready via phone or live chat through the FordPass app to answer any FordPass questions. 

Ford service near Bend OR provides any service under the hood or anywhere else regardless if it's an oil change, tire rotation or more complex repair.

When looking for a trusted service dealer, Ford service near Bend OR is the place to go. We provide family haulers, stylish sedans, SUVs, and of course pickup trucks. We also provide pre-owned vehicles of various makes and models and a variety of trim levels. TS&S Ford is committed to ensuring that every customer is satisfied regardless of whether you are buying new, used, or leasing. We also offer an excellent trade in policy and rental vehicles. It doesn't matter if you bought your vehicle from TS&S Ford or elsewhere. It doesn't matter if you bought it a month or a year ago, we still invite you to be a part of our family. We provide a state-of-the-art auto center with authentic Ford parts and accessories. We are here to meet all of your vehicle service needs.

We value the health and safety of our staff and customers, so we are taking extra steps to maintain a healthy and sanitary workplace while meeting our customer's needs. TS&S Ford continues to monitor information from the CDC and the state health authorities for their recommendations on how to prevent spreading the virus.

Ford Service near Bend OR: More than Just Service

TS&S Ford hosts an impressive team of finance and product specialists as well as highly trained service technicians. We maintain a wide selection of vehicles. Our product specialists are prepared to answer any questions that you may have. Our finance specialists will work within your desired budget while keeping you informed throughout the process. We are a full-service dealer and would be honored to manage your routine maintenance appointments to ensure that your vehicle is performing at its best. Visit our website and fill out the contact form online. We will promptly verify the time and date as well as the needs of your Ford. Our service technicians receive advanced training, use genuine parts and innovative diagnostic assessment tools for an accurate diagnosis of your vehicle. 

Ford OTA Updates near Prineville OR: The Easiest Update Yet

If you haven't heard the news, Ford has an all-new F-150 pickup in the works for 2021 that will have the infrastructure for Ford OTA updates near Prineville OR.

It was already known that Ford was working on over-the-air updates for the Mustang Mach-E, and according to information provided by Ford, OTA technology was coming for other Ford vehicles as well. During an interview in May, Ford's Chief Product Development and Purchasing Officer revealed that the technology would be included in the 2021 F-150.

What are Ford OTA Updates Near Prineville OR?

Ford OTA updates near Prineville OR are Over the Air updates that allow for behind the scenes updates for the vehicle's technology. OTA systems can update infotainment systems with new features, or fix bugs. With new vehicles becoming ever more reliant on electronic systems over mechanics, updating those electronics over time is more crucial than ever.

Even though pickup trucks invoke a sort of "old fashioned" image, modern trucks are actually some of the most tech filled vehicles on the market. The next generation F-150 is no exception.  Modern trucks use a variety of electronic systems to make the work that trucks do easier, like trailering, cameras for visibility, and interior technology.

 

A great case in point is off-roading. The differential, traction control, and suspension systems in off-road vehicles are all controlled by electronic driving modes. With the 2021 Ford F-150 and Ford OTA updates near Prineville OR, the company will be able to keep the truck up to date and improve it over time, electronically, or "over the air".

Exactly what that means is still a mystery. Connectivity going forward undoubtedly has advantages when it comes to vehicle maintenance, troubleshooting problems remotely, and plugging in software updates to improve various systems. Collecting data on features customers use can help guide Ford in determining costs for options and extras, and then there's the supplier/vendor perspective with various apps and services. We'll probably have to wait until the new truck arrives before understanding the full range of this system. For now, just know it's on its way.

How does OTA updating work? 

Minor updates like Sync® infotainment will be done effortlessly. But this technology goes way beyond minor infotainment updates. According to Ford, nearly all computer modules can be updated wirelessly; meaning Ford OTA updates near Prineville OR can provide performance enhancements and entirely new features that may not even exist when customers first take delivery of their vehicles. Think about it; software improves and changes constantly. Meanwhile, vehicles sit on dealer lots for weeks before being purchased, and can basically already be outdated by the time they get to the buyers' driveways.

Some installations will be practically unseen to customers, who can select a regular time - such as the middle of the night. Many updates will be completed almost instantly after a customer starts their vehicle, while in-vehicle alerts will tell what improvements have been installed. Many can be completed in less than two minutes, and more complex updates that might require the vehicle to be parked for longer can be scheduled to take place at the owner's convenience. 

Will OTA technology help with minor warranty work?

In some instances this could help. Theoretically, the repair could be made over the air if a minor warranty issue existed.  This would free up the owner from scheduling a repair, and in addition, would help Ford lower costs for warranty work. For example, if issues were related to codes or electronics, they could be fixed over the air. Of course, some issues like transmissions or frozen door locks wouldn't be able to be corrected remotely and would require a trip to the dealership. 

OTA updates won't eliminate hands-on repair, and maybe it'll only help owners save time. Not until we actually see the 2021 F-150 with Ford OTA updates near Prineville OR, will we know what it all means. But at this point, we know it's good.

Does the 2021 GMC Yukon in Madras OR Outrank the 2021 Ford Expedition?

Despite the desire to go green, the demand for full-size SUVs remains strong and the competition continues. The question is… which is better; the 2021 GMC Yukon in Madras OR, or the 2021 Ford Expedition?

 

While there may be less full size SUVs on the market today, the competition is fierce, and the latest generations of this class are better than ever. If you're transporting a large family and towing a heavy trailer at the same time, there are few options outside of an Expedition or Yukon that are as capable. Offered in both standard and long-wheelbase Max body styles, the Expedition offers three spacious rows of seating, plenty of  room for cargo, and up to a 9300-pound towing capacity (when properly equipped), which is the best capability in the class.

The 2021 Ford Expedition has four different trims that are available: XLT, Limited, King Ranch and Platinum. All Expeditions are powered by twin-turbocharged 3.5L Ecoboost V6 engines. The engine delivers 375 horsepower and 470 pound-feet of torque, with the Platinum trim delivering 400 hp/480 lb-ft of torque. Both rear-wheel and 4-wheel drive are available, and the sole transmission is a 10-speed automatic, which manages to do it all, almost effortlessly. Acceleration is quick from a stop, with strong throttle response as you hit the gas. Ford's really figured out how to get maximum power and torque out of a smaller turbo engine, and with headline numbers like 400 hp and 480 lb-ft of torque, it makes a compelling case. Fuel economy is decent as well, with a combined EPA rating of 19 mpg.

The all-new 2021 GMC Yukon in Madras OR and Yukon XL are larger, roomier inside, more powerful, and promise to be more refined than the full-sized SUVs they replace.  Three different engines are offered for the Yukon and Yukon XL: two gasoline, and one diesel, all teamed with a 10-speed automatic transmission. Look for the 5.3-liter V8 (standard) to push around 355 hp and 383 lb-ft of torque, and the diesel to make somewhere around 277 hp and 460 lb-ft of torque. Those numbers are based on the Tahoe and Suburban outputs; GM has yet to confirm the final Yukon specs. Fuel economy is a challenge for this segment of heavy, powerful vehicles. The added size may limit the efficiency gained by the 10-speed automatic. Looks like Ford stays on top.

2021 GMC Yukon in Madras OR vs Ford Expedition: Cabin Noise

 

Inside the 2021 Ford Expedition, the cabin is quiet, and the third-row seat is truly suitable for adults. It holds eight people, but you can get second-row captain's chairs, which drops seating to seven. The front seats provide a commanding view of the road ahead. The second and third row seats can be folded flat with the push of a button to create an enormous cargo area. There's a good amount of room behind the third row, but if you need even more space, opt for the Max model.  In its standard body length, the Expedition has 20.9 cubic feet of space behind the third row, 63.6 cubic feet with the third row folded, and a whopping 104.6 cubic feet with both rear rows folded. Those values have trounced the GMC Yukon in the past, which offered 15.3, 51.7, and 94.7 cubic feet. GMC says the Yukon's space behind the third row has grown from 15.3 cubic feet to 25.5 cubic feet, thanks in part to the independent rear suspension that allows for a well that the third row folds into. As a result, maximum cargo space has increased a claimed 28.2 cubic feet. Even with these improvements, the 2021 Ford Expedition in Madras OR still boasts more space than the Yukon.

For 2021, the Expedition comes standard with a suite of safety systems that includes forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, blind spot warning, and rear cross traffic warning. In the 2021 GMC Yukon in Madras OR it seems that automatic emergency braking is standard on all versions, and numerous driver assist features are available, such as a surround-view camera, rearview mirror camera, and rear pedestrian alert.

The 2021 GMC Yukon in Madras OR has improved all around, but the 2021 Ford Expedition still comes out on top. Visit TS&S Ford to see the difference for yourself. 

2021 Ford Bronco near Prineville OR is Back and Better Than Ever

The arrival of the 2021 Ford Bronco near Prineville OR marks a serious commitment from Ford to return to the off-road SUV market. At TS&S Ford, we're making a commitment to bring the Bronco to you.

         

Bringing the Bronco back is also a revival of one of the brand's most well-known models, at least for truck enthusiasts. Ford pulled the plug on the Bronco after the 1996 model year to focus on more family-focused SUVs like the Explorer. Unlike Chevrolet, which similarly brought its popular Blazer SUV name out of retirement last year only to apply it to a crossover SUV, Ford is keeping the Bronco's rugged truck-based heritage intact. The 2021 Bronco is slated to arrive in the first half of 2021.

Based on details that Ford has released to dealers, the reincarnated version will have a boxy shape with retro styling. It'll be available with two or four removable doors, and a removable roof that sets it up to compete with rugged opposition like the Jeep Wrangler. The fact that the 2021 Ford Bronco near Prineville OR won't be getting a V-8 might upset traditionalists, but the turbocharged 4-cylinder and twin-turbo V-6 should provide more than enough pep. Of course, the new Bronco will also have a plethora of off-road hardware that will ensure it doesn't veer too far from its roots. While we excitedly anticipate the official reveal of the 2021 Bronco, here's what we know so far.

Ford is bringing back the Bronco nameplate for 2021, and it's supposed to follow the old-school vibe and off-road pedigree of its iconic predecessors. Although there have been lots of rumors and almost as many spy photos, we won't have all the details until Ford officially pulls the cover off at the Bronco's debut, which will be livestreamed over the Internet on July 9, 2020.

2021 Ford Bronco near Prineville OR: New Details

So far, the company has not indicated how much the Bronco will cost or what trim levels will complete the lineup. Since we know it'll be available with two or four doors, have removable roof panels, and offer multiple powertrains, it's likely to have a wide range of prices just like the Jeep Wrangler lineup. We also think the 2021 Ford Bronco near Prineville OR starting price will be slightly higher than the Jeep's, which starts at around $30,000, because even the base model should come with more standard features than the Jeep.

Prototype testing of the Bronco has been spied, which gave some clues about its wheelbase, tires, and suspension. But so far, most information is just speculation. We do know it will share a platform with the next-generation Ford Ranger pickup truck. We know it'll get the turbocharged 2.3-liter 4-cylinder from the current Ford Ranger as well as the twin-turbo 2.7-liter V-6 that's available on the Ford F-150. The Bronco could get a seven-speed manual transmission with a "crawler" gear for off-roading, as well. Ford has confirmed that the Bronco will eventually offer a hybrid powertrain, too.

Other than the removable doors and roof, the interior of the 2021 Ford Bronco near Prineville OR is probably the most unknown aspect of the vehicle. Since its retro exterior will take design cues from past generations, there's a chance those particulars could extend inside as well. According to a Ford engineer, the Bronco's interior will have extra durable parts, including waterproof components for sensitive electronics like those that control the seat adjustments. Spy photos have also shown some clues. In addition to a large central touchscreen, there's a set of toggle switches for auxiliary equipment above the rearview mirror and a rotary knob for selecting drive modes behind the gear selector.

Ford's latest in-dash Sync4 software will power the large touchscreen which is set in the middle of the Bronco's dashboard. This arrangement allows for over-the-air (OTA) updates and can connect wirelessly to the cloud and the user's Smartphone. The infotainment system will also likely support a host of modern infotainment features that include Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a subscription-based Wi-Fi hotspot. There will likely be optional upgrades such as built-in navigation and a more powerful audio system, as well.

The 2021 Ford Bronco near Prineville OR has yet to be tested by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) or the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). Although Ford hasn't stated which driver-assistance technology will be standard, expect features such as lane-keeping assist, automated emergency braking, adaptive cruise control and more to be offered. 

2020 Ford Edge ST-Line near Bend OR is Part of a New, Budget-Friendly ST Line

If the full-on ST version of the Ford Edge is out of your budget, or you don't need the extra performance features, Ford is now offering a less expensive 2020 Ford Edge ST-Line near Bend OR that gives the mid-size crossover a sportier exterior and interior than the standard version.

If you're not familiar with the ST badge and what it means, it stands for Sport Technologies. Basically, in order to get the ST badge, a vehicle must be equipped with special features that have been developed by Ford Performance engineers.

Ford Performance has built some hot and spirited hatchbacks like the Fiesta ST and Focus ST in recent years. But one model that was surprising to get the ST treatment was the Ford Edge crossover. More than just a sporty appearance package, the Ford Edge ST packs a 2.7-liter turbocharged EcoBoost V6 that produces 335 horsepower and 380 lb-ft of torque, which is sent to all four wheels through an eight-speed automatic transmission. This setup enables the Edge ST to accelerate from 0-62 mph in less than six seconds.

Horsepower in the 2020 Ford Edge ST-Line near Bend OR

However, some customers want value and style, and don't want all the horsepower. Since the ST-Line is based on the standard Ford Edge, power is provided by a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, producing 250 hp and 275 lb-ft of torque, which can be sent to a front-wheel-drive or an optional all-wheel-drive system through the eight-speed automatic transmission. Larger brakes are also optional. 

To differentiate it from the standard model, the 2020 Ford Edge ST-Line near Bend OR has styling inspired by Ford Performance which includes a unique ST-style grille with body-colored bumpers, black ST beltline molding combined with lower sport cladding, standard fog lamps and signature LED lighting. Black roof rack side rails, 20-inch gloss black aluminum wheels and unique Edge ST-Line badging puts the finishing touches to the exterior enhancements.

As standard, the 2020 Ford Edge ST-Line near Bend OR is equipped with Ford's Sync 3 infotainment system with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Waze and Ford+Alexa compatibility, along with a wireless phone charging pad, a premium audio system with 9 speakers, and Sirius XM Radio. You'll get a leather wrapped steering wheel with cruise, secondary audio and 5-way controls. There's a ton of other standard comforts and convenience features.  Optional features includes Ford Co-Pilot360 Assist Plus technology with an active park assist, evasive steering assist, adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go, lane-centering, and all-wheel-drive disconnect.

Safety features that come standard in the ST-Line include:

 

• Ford's Personal Safety System™

• Side-impact Airbag-Front & 2nd row Safety Canopy® Side-Curtain with Rollover Sensor

• Driver & Front Passenger Dual-Stage

• SOS Post-Crash Alert System

• Child Safety Rear door locks

• LATCH system for child safety seats

• Rear-view Camera

• Driver Knee Airbag

• Passenger Knee Airbag

 

 The interior of the Edge ST-Line seen here is mostly black, but lots of textures and materials (such as metal vent surrounds and faux carbon fiber) break up the cabin. The seats are partial leather, heated front seats, and feature red contrast stitching with a 10-way power driver's seat and 6-way power passenger seat. The front door scuff plates also feature a red ST-Line logo. The rear seats are 60/40 split-fold-flat and reclining bench with fold down arm rests. 

Ordering for the 2020 Ford Edge ST-Line near Bend OR has begun. If a sporty looking crossover with plenty of passenger and cargo room is on your horizon, this is the vehicle for you. Visit us at TS&S Ford in person or online to get yours!

Driving in Extreme Heat? A Madras Ford Dealer Offers Some Vital Tips

Summer is around the corner and with it comes the extreme heat. Yet the summer heat often comes with damaging effects on your car, especially if you don’t take the necessary precautions. You may even end up taking your vehicle to the closest Madras Ford dealer for repairs.

How can you prevent the heat from bringing your car to a screeching halt?

Check your batteries

Many drivers worry about how the winter cold can zap their batteries. In reality, they should be just as worried about the summer heat. The extreme temperatures of summer can cause the battery fluid to evaporate faster, which in turn can corrode the battery terminals and clamps. To avoid this, clean any corrosive buildup from the terminal and make sure the clamps are fastened tightly. Is your battery nearing the three-year mark? Have it inspected as it may need immediate replacement.

Top up on coolant

Coolants are to your engine what a glass of water might be to a thirsty person. So, always make sure there’s enough coolant in your engine when driving in the summer. Check your owner’s manual carefully, however, as different Ford vehicles have different recommended water-to-coolant ratios. Take a look at how often the coolant should be changed as well; it’s typically between 24,000 to 100,000 miles, though it varies depending on the model (or even year) of your car.

Properly inflate your tires

Did you know that underinflated tires are more sensitive to heat and more prone to blowouts? It’s always a good idea to check your tires before driving, but be extra vigilant when you know it’ll be a hot day ahead. Not sure what the right tire pressure is? While tire manufacturers have their own pressure recommendations, you should follow what’s in your car manual instead. Note, however, that sometimes a car will require different tire pressures for the front and rear tires.

Inspect the belts and hoses

Your vehicle’s belts and hoses are critical pieces that keep your car cool, but extreme heat can cause them to wear out faster. Should they crack, blister, or snap, it won’t be long until your radiator overheats and your vehicle stalls on the highway. If you’re handy under the hood, you can inspect your belts and hoses for damage. Otherwise, have them professionally checked. Replace worn out parts as soon as possible to avoid any mishaps along the road.

Have a roadside emergency kit

You never know when a breakdown might happen, but you can lessen your headaches if you have an emergency kit ready. You should always have a spare tire in the trunk, but make sure to check its pressure from time to time. Other essentials include road flares, jumper cables, water for your engine, a flashlight with extra batteries, and a bottle of coolant. Your kit should also have the number of your dealer, mechanic, or car insurer so you can call for roadside assistance ASAP.

Indeed, driving in the heat of summer offers its own set of challenges, but you can prevent it with proper maintenance. Drive safe, everyone!

Want more helpful vehicle tips? Visit TS&S Ford, a family-owned Ford dealer in Madras, OR.