Ford Car Junkie 

A good way to start your new year

So, how was your new year?

How about including better car care for your Ford in your New Year’s Resolution this year? Okay, your new year’s resolution last year never really got off – you were only able to keep your exercise-to-get-fit routine for a couple of months before you succumbed to your favorite diet of burger, steak and fries. But car care is critical to keeping you and your Ford’s passengers safe and in prolonging the life of your Ford car, truck or SUV. Surely, starting the year with that in mind will be beneficial to you, your car, and most especially, your wallet.

Here’s a simple checklist that you can follow to keep your Ford vehicle in shape for the rest of the year:

* Weekly - Antifreeze

* Monthly - Belts, Brake fluid, Hoses, Power steering fluid, Tires and Transmission fluid

* Every two months - Air filter

* Every three months or 3,000 miles - Change oil

* At every oil change - Battery

* Every other fuel fill-up - Engine oil, Washer fluid, Front and rear lights

* Replace when worn or leaking - Shock absorbers

* Yearly - Exhaust, Wiper blades

And if you should need quality Ford grilles, A/C condensers, radiators, lights, hubcaps, spoilers and windshields, you know where to go: to Ford Parts Online.

Replacing your Ford’s lights

Your Ford vehicle’s lights are more crucial than ever during winter – when daylight hours are shorter and the darker hours are longer, not to mention the additional challenges that ice and snow bring.

Driving around with faulty lights is dangerous. When was the last time you checked if the lights in your Ford Freestyle or [link=hhttp://www.fordvehicles.com/cars/focus/]Ford Focus[/link] were working perfectly? Next time before you drive off, switch the lights and indicators on and get out to see if they are working. You can reverse close to a wall or the garage doors to check the brake lights in the rear view mirror. You should check your vehicle's lights at least once a week and before each long trip.

Replacing a busted bulb is relatively an easy task which you can do yourself. After consulting your owner’s manual whether this is a task you can do yourself or if it’s something that must be replaced by a professional, choose the right type of bulb. You can check out Ford Parts Online’s wide selection of quality Ford headlights, taillights, turn signal lights, altezza lights, and more.

To replace a bulb, follow these steps:

1. Disconnect the wiring plug from the bulb or the light unit.
2. Peel back the rubber cover or remove the bulb holder from the light unit.
3. For a headlamp bulb, squeeze together the legs of the spring clip to release it. Move the clip out of the way and pull out the bulb. For most other bulbs, push and rotate them gently to release them (a similar action to a household light bulb).
4. A headlamp bulb will probably have tangs around the edge so it can only be fitted one way. Fit the new bulb, making sure it's the right way up, and secure it with the spring clip. Remember, don't touch the glass.
Other bulbs have locating pins arranged to ensure they are fitted correctly.
5. Replace the rubber cover or bulb holder and reconnect the wiring plug.
6. Check that the bulb is working.

Tip: If you replace a bulb but it still doesn't work, look for corrosion in the bulb holder or the wiring connector. Squirt some water dispersant spray onto corroded contacts. And if more than one bulb seems to have failed at once, remember it could be a blown fuse.

Ford Fusion versus Civic, Solstice for NACOTY award

For the second straight year, Ford has placed both a car and a truck in the coveted North American Car and Truck of the Year finals. Ford vehicles also were voted both car and truck finalists in back-to-back years in 1995-96. No other automotive brand has achieved this feat since the awards were founded in 1994.

The Ford Fusion mid-size sedan and the Ford Explorer SUV have been named finalists for the 2006 North American Car of the Year and Truck of the Year awards respectively.





Based on Ford's recently introduced 427 concept, the 2006 Fusion is built on a new platform (Ford identifies it as CD3), which will also be the base for several future Ford models. The platform borrows some elements from the Mazda6 (Ford Motor Company has equity stakes in Mazda), including the chassis (stretched for the Fusion) and engines.

The most important sedan launched since the Ford Taurus, the Ford Fusion wows with its bold styling (quite a departure from Ford’s other more “conservative” styles) – immediately, the front dominated by a large 3-bar grille and projector headlights extending up the hood will grab your attention, and extends it to the car’s rear which is graced by snappy clear lens taillights. As is the norm for mid-size sedans, the Fusion is offered with four-cylinder and V6 engines. The 160-horsepower 2.3-liter four is matched to a five-speed manual or five-speed automatic transaxle; the 221-hp V6 is matched to a six-speed transaxle, the first in its class, for benefits to both performance and fuel economy. From the euro-centric design, to an interior full of tight gaps and vault-like silence, to solid on-road manners, the Fusion has the makings of a winner.

For the NACOTY award, the Fusion is up against two equally great cars – the 2006 Honda Civic and the 2006 Pontiac Solstice.

Other previous Ford North American Car and Truck of the Year winners include: Ford F150 (Truck of the Year, 2004 and 1996), Ford Focus (Car of the Year, 2000), and Ford Expedition (Truck of the Year, 1997).

Make sure that your Ford is always a winner. Give it only the best quality auto parts from trusted online auto parts stores like Ford Parts Online.

Ford says it could learn from Japanese rivals

The upcoming Detroit North American International Auto Show will see Ford Motor Co. unveiling two new crossovers: the new Lincoln Aviator and the Ford Edge. Both are scheduled to hit showrooms next fall, and Ford said both demonstrate the company's new “bold, American” design emphasis.

Peter Horbury, Ford executive director of design for North America was quoted in the Detriot News as saying that the company needs to learn from its Japanese rivals. According to him, “They (referring to the Japanese automakers) have so expertly melded their national values with their global brand”. He wants to do the same with Ford’s brands by capturing the “overt gestures and purposeful actions” which defines the American culture. He further went on to mention the new Ford Fusion sedan as a shining example of how designers can translate American traits into automotive styling – likening the Fusion’s bold grill and wide, head-on profile to the archetypal image of the grinning, optimistic American.

Mark Fields, president of Ford's Americas division announced that sales of the new Fusion and its siblings, the Mercury Milan and Lincoln Zephyr, are exceeding the automaker's expectations.

Meanwhile, if you’re looking to keep your Ford vehicle in shape and yourself a grinning, optimistic American – make sure to get only the best Ford auto parts like Ford F250 hubcaps, Ford Mustang mirrors, Ford Explorer window regulator, or Ford Bronco headlights at reliable online auto parts stores such as Ford's Parts Online.

Driving safely on winter nights

This winter, driving at night will be especially more dangerous. At night, a driver’s vision is severely limited, and his ability to see color and contrast present during the day is also reduced. Traffic death is therefore three times more likely to happen at night. Coupled with ice and snow, the danger only increases.

You can avoid being another number in the statistic by following these night time driving tips from the Motor Vehicle Lighting Council (MVLC):

1. Use your lights courteously - turn your Ford's headlights on an hour before sunset to make it easier for other drivers to see you in early twilight. Also, keep your headlights on at least one hour after sunrise. Remember to refrain from flashing your high beams at a vehicle with its high beams on, this will only increase the chance that two drivers will not be able to see. In fog, use only your Ford’s low beam headlights; high beams reduce your own ability to see and may temporarily blind other drivers. If your Ford is equipped with fog lamps, use them with your low beams only when there is fog or inclement weather.

2. Make it easy for others to see you - be sure all your Ford’s exterior vehicle lights work properly. Don’t compromise your safety and the safety of your passengers by driving around with bad headlights. Repair them immediately or replace them with quality headlights from trusted online auto parts stores like Ford's Parts Online. In case of a vehicle breakdown, pull completely off the road beyond the end of the guardrail ["crash barrier"], if possible, and turn on the emergency flashers ["hazard lights"].

3. Avoid glare - instead of looking at oncoming headlights, look toward the right side of the road [the left hand side in drive-on-the-left countries] and watch [the curb/kerb or] any line marking the outside edge of the traffic lane. When headlights from vehicles following you reflect in your Ford’s rearview mirror, use the "day-night" feature on the mirror or adjust your mirror to cut out as much of the light as possible.

4. Adjust your Ford's interior lighting - if street lights cause a lot of glare, dim your dashboard lights and use your sun visor. Avoid using any other light inside your vehicle.

5. Keep all windows and headlights clean - dirty windows can increase glare, making it more difficult to see, while dirty headlights can reduce efficiency by as much as 90 percent. Be sure to clean the inside and outside of your Ford’s windshield as well as your headlights.

6. Keep your eyes moving - look for flashes or beams of light [or glare] at hilltops, curves and intersections that may indicate the headlights of other vehicles.

7. Increase your following distance - increasing your distance by four to five seconds can make it easier to spot potential problems on and along the roadway and give you more time to respond. In addition, proper lighting will enable you to react quicker and stop at a safe distance from the vehicle in front of you.

8. Regulate your speed - driving too fast is more dangerous after dark than during the day because of decreased visibility. Traveling at high speeds doesn't allow you enough time or distance to stop when you see something dangerous on the road ahead.

9. Prevent fatigue - night driving can be tiring, so ensure good ventilation inside the vehicle and take frequent refreshment breaks to give your eyes a chance to recover. Take a short nap or a brisk walk, or have some caffeine to help you stay alert.

10. Use your Ford’s mirrors to your advantage - exterior mirrors that are properly aligned not only reduce blind spots, they also reduce glare from vehicles behind you. Your Ford’s outside rearview mirrors should be adjusted so that the body work of the vehicle is just outside of the driver's view. In addition, the rearview mirror can be flipped to its "day-night" setting which changes the angle of the reflective surface and appears to dim the mirror.

Make sure to replace any worn or damaged headlights, mirrors, or windshield with only the best Ford auto parts. You can find these and more at Ford Parts Online.

Simple Ways to Replace your Wiper Blades

Is it your first time replacing your Ford’s worn windshield-wiper blades? It may look easy at first glance, but if it’s your first time – it might prove to be frustrating – especially if the package comes with elaborately folded instructions in five languages, not to mention clips and attachments enough to make the faint-hearted well, faint. Okay, that was an exaggeration. But here’s a simple do it yourself guide anyway (thanks to eHow.com):



1. Purchase the correct replacement windshield-wiper blades for your car at an auto-parts store (or from your trusted online auto parts store, [b]Ford Parts Online[/b]). Buy the entire blade, not just the rubber blade insert.

2. Open the package and find the attachment that matches the one on the wiper blade on your car. Read through the directions to see how to connect the attachment to the blade.

3. Pull the wiper arm up so it is no longer resting on the windshield.

4. Remove the old wiper blade from the wiper arm. This typically involves pushing on a tab and pulling the wiper blade off or lifting a tab with a small screwdriver.

5. Insert the attachment onto the new blade or onto the wiper arm. On some cars, it may be easier to put the attachment on the wiper blade first; on other models, it is easier to first put the attachment onto the wiper arm. Listen for a click.

6. Tug on the wiper blade to make sure it is securely attached and won't fly off later.

7. Gently lower the wiper arm onto the windshield.

There. Once you get the hang of it, it should be easy.

Majority of Ford Models Soon to Offer Voice Control and Wireless Connectivity

Europe models, that is.

Ford announced Thursday that the majority of its European models will offer Bluetooth wireless connectivity and voice control of onboard systems by early 2006. The technology has been test marketed on selected models (Ford Mondeo, Ford Focus and Ford C-MAX) since May 2005. The new versions of the Ford Fiesta and Ford Fusion have also adopted this technology and they are the first models in their segment to offer this premium technology. Ford's Transit range will offer Bluetooth connectivity to commercial vehicle customers from early 2006.

[img=http://common.weblogsinc.com/common/images/3060000000054420.JPG?0.5686059214579127]voice control][/img]

Bluetooth wireless technology, coupled with voice control of onboard systems, provides a convenient and safe way to operate mobile phones, climate controls and entertainment equipment while driving. Ford also offers customers the ability to connect portable audio devices via a conventional 3.5 mm audio connector that is available with most Ford audio systems. This enables a wide range of entertainment systems, from portable Mp3 players to mobile phone based entertainment centers, to be connected through the car's factory-fitted audio system.

Wow. I take care of my Ford really nice, I make sure it’s always in shape, and I give it only the best replacement auto parts from Ford Parts Online. I sure would love to see this technology on the next Ford vehicle I buy.

Finding the Perfect Tire

Proper tire maintenance is essential in keeping your Ford vehicle safe. Its importance cannot be emphasized enough. Never forget that your Ford’s tires are the only contact between your vehicle and the road.

Under inflation is the leading cause of tire failure. Under inflated tires are not only more prone to damage and failure, they can lead to higher fuel costs by as much as 3 to 5¢ per gallon. Not to mention that they can also compromise your vehicle’s safety.

So how do you choose the best tire for your Ford vehicle?

According to Consumer Reports, you can do this by first, making sure that new tires are the same size with the same speed and load ratings as the ones originally on your vehicle. Next, balance the pros and cons of the type you're considering. Changing tire types is relatively easy on cars; consult your owner's manual before switching. However, some SUV manufacturers advise sticking with the type originally on the vehicle.

Here’s a quick comparison from Consumer Reports to help you choose the best tire type for your car:

All-season tires. (Speed Ratings: None, S, T; Tread-wear warranties: 40,000 to 100,000 miles; Typical wheel sizes: 13 to 15”; Price range: $35 to $80). Best for drivers who value year-round traction, long tread wear, and a comfortable ride. However, the downside of choosing this type of tires is that they typically lack the precise handling and grip of performance all-season tires.

Performance all-season tires. (Speed Ratings: H, V; Tread-wear warranties: 40,000 to 70,000 miles; Typical wheel sizes: 15 to 17”; Price range: $60 to $130). Best for those who want better handling and grip without giving up too much comfort and wear. But many still cost more than all-season tires and have lower tread-wear warranties.

Ultra-high-performance tires. (Speed Ratings: W, Y, Z; Tread-wear warranties: none for most; Typical wheel sizes: 16 to 20”; Price range: $90 to $160). Best for drivers willing to trade tread wear and ride for maximum wet and dry braking and handling. But upgrading usually requires larger wheels. Summer versions aren't made for snow or ice.

Winter tires. (Speed Ratings: Q, S, T, H; Tread-wear warranties: none; Typical wheel sizes: 13 to 18”; Price range: $50 to $160). Best for those who need maximum traction on ice and snow, particularly where winters are severe. But fast tread wear and less wet and dry traction mean winter tires are for winter-only use.

Tires for SUVs and pickups. (Speed Ratings: S for most; Tread-wear warranties: 40,000 to 60,000 miles; Typical wheel sizes: 15 to 17”; Price range: $55 to $125). Best for off-pavement use for all-terrain models, on-road use for all-season versions. But some carmakers urge you to stick with all-terrain or all-season if that's what came with your vehicle.

For the best replacement tires for your Ford vehicle, visit trusted online auto parts stores like Ford Parts Online where you can find premium quality Ford wheels for your Ford Expedition, Ford Focus, Ford Mustang, and more at a price that fits your budget.

F-150 Soon to be an Office

Talk about overachievers.

Inside Line reports that the centerpiece of Ford Motor Co.'s exhibit at the upcoming Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) show this November will be an F-150 pickup truck modified with a computer system that was developed with Microsoft. Essentially, it will allow contractors to have a "rolling office."



Also according to Inside Line, the customized F-150 features a laptop computer with a charging system that is built into the center console. The truck includes a credit card reader that would allow a contractor or other worker to order supplies while on the road. Hmm. Very nice. Think about all the time, money and effort you can save. I own an F-150 myself, and for the past three years that I’ve had it, it’s been a real big help especially on trips when I have to lug a lot of things around. It’s been real good to me – and so far, I’ve kept it running smoothly by always sticking to regular maintenance schedules and making sure that I never delay replacing worn or damaged auto parts like wheels, mirrors and headlights. Just recently I’ve ordered new floor mats from Ford Parts Online for the truck just to keep the look inside nice and comfy.

But this new, customized Ford F-150 (reportedly to debut in the 2007 model year), is exciting me really nicely.

Rx for Gas prices-related stress

If the simple act of pumping gas to your car is sending your blood pressure up another level, these simple fuel-saving driving tips from the Car Care Council may just be the perfect Rx for your gas prices-related stress:

• Don't be an aggressive driver - Aggressive driving can lower gas mileage by as much as 33 percent on the highway and 5 percent on city streets, which results in 7 to 49 cents per gallon.

• Avoid excessive idling - Sitting idle gets zero miles per gallon. Letting your Ford warm up for one to two minutes is sufficient.

• Observe the speed limit. Gas mileage decreases rapidly at speeds above 60 mph. Each mpg driven over 60 will result in an additional 10 cents per gallon. To maintain a constant speed on the highway, cruise control is recommended.

• Combining errands into one trip saves gas and time. Several short trips taken from a cold start can use twice as much fuel as a longer multi-purpose trip covering the same distance.

• Avoid carrying unneeded heavy items in the truck. An extra 100 pounds can cut your Ford’s fuel efficiency by a percent or two.

Keep in mind that one of the simplest and easiest ways to keep your head above the skyrocketing gas prices is to make sure that your Ford vehicle is well-maintained, and your Ford parts well taken cared of. A lot of people don’t realize that even by simply paying attention to the little ‘problems’ - loose or missing gas caps, under inflated tires, worn spark plugs, dirty air filters –can save money at the pump and improve your Ford’s fuel economy. If you need to replace your Ford Focus fender, or your Ford Excursion headlights, just visit trusted online auto parts like Ford Parts Online where you can get premium quality Ford auto parts at the most affordable prices.