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If you're looking for a vehicle that offers both practicality and luxury, then the 2025 Ford Expedition should be on your radar. Every trim is safe and comfortable, and the SUV boasts pickup truck-like power. The higher trims have so much luxury that you'll never want to leave the vehicle. Unveiling the 2025 Ford Expedition: Luxury and Power Combined Super Strength If you need an SUV that can handle hauling like a pickup truck, then the Expedition is perfect for you. It can tow up to 9,600 pounds, supported well by its brawny 3.6 EcoBoost V6 twin-turbo powertrain. Depending on the trim, the engine produces 400 to 440 horsepower. The vehicle tows more than several of its closest competitors. The Max models can tow slightly less than the regular models, handling up to 9,000 pounds. more Tremendous Tailgate Manager The Expedition has a Cargo Tailgate Manager available. This allows you to open the cargo area and use the tailgate as a shelf, table, or backrest. Turning it into a shelf gives you two tiers to place items on, making it highly functional whether you're working or having fun with your family. The backrest function allows you to sit with your back supported, and the average adult can even comfortably rest their elbow on this backrest. Luxury to Love The higher trims of the Expedition have some wonderfully luxurious features, from incredible hand-free driving technology to convenience and comfort features. The top trim comes with a year of BlueCruise Hands-Free Highway Driving, a premium 22-speaker sound system, front-row heated and ventilated seats, and memory settings for the adjustable exterior mirrors, foot pedals, and driver's seat. Even the base trim is supremely comfortable and has incredible technology. It's equipped with BlueCruise, allowing you to drive hands-free on compatible sections of highways if you choose to activate the feature. It also has a 10-way power driver's seat and an 8-way power front passenger seat, all of which have power tilt, lumbar, and recline. Superb Safety A 360-degree camera lets you see what's going on everywhere, and the Rear View Camera is very helpful while you're backing up. There are multiple driver assistance features, including Lane-Keeping Alert, Lane-Keeping Assist, Road Edge Protection, Driver Alert, and Pre-Collision Assist. The latter can detect pedestrians, warn you about potential collisions, and automatically engage the brakes when needed. Terrific Trail-Readiness Every Expedition can handle off-roading well, but the TREMOR was designed to be the best off-roading Expedition model. It has skid plates to protect the underbody, 33-inch all-terrain tires, and a slightly raised suspension system. Its Rock Crawl driving mode helps it take on rocky terrain. Trail Turn Assist makes navigating tight turns easier, as it helps the backend swing around tight corners. Do you want to get your hands on the Expedition? Come to Ewald's Hartford Ford in Hartford, WI to find yours today.

Nothing draws glances of admiration like a 2025 Ford Mustang parked on your driveway. The perennial pony car comes packed with exciting features and offers a range of powerful engine options that make it fun to drive. Introducing the 2025 Ford Mustang: A Legend Reborn Potent Engine Lineup The 2025 Mustang lineup includes three powerful engines, including two V8s. The base model is powered by a 2.3L EcoBoost engine, generating 315 hp and 350 lb-ft of torque. Meanwhile, the GT trim level transforms it into a muscle car with a 5.0L Ti-VCT V8, producing 480 hp and 415 lb-ft of torque. At the top of the range, the Mustang Dark Horse features a modified 5.0L Coyote V8 that produces a ground-trembling 500 hp and 418 lb-ft of torque. more Diverse Range of Transmissions All EcoBoost models come equipped with a 10-speed automatic transmission that conserves fuel and provides a smooth ride. Steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters make driving engaging, retaining the feel of a sporty Mustang. However, if you want complete control over your car's gear changes, the GT trim level offers an MT82-D4 6-speed manual option. Automatic rev-matching makes downshifting with the manual transmission smoother, aligning the speed of the engine to prevent the car from jerking. For true white-knuckle shifting, the high-performance Dark Horse trims offer a modified TREMEC TR 3160 6-speed manual with rev-matching and no-lift shifting. The exclusive transmission includes a titanium-anodized blue knob for a cold, metallic look that matches the trim's overall theme. Exclusive Remote Rev Feature If you wish to show off the Mustang's spine-tingling roar, you can now do so without getting in the driver's seat. A Remote Rev feature is integrated into the key fob, enabling you to rev up the engine with the press of a button. Sophisticated Brakes Stopping the mighty Mustang requires serious braking power. Standard on the pony car is a 19-inch Brembo brake system with six-piston front brake calipers. The braking system includes an electronic line lock, which applies the brakes only to the front wheels, enabling the driver to perform a burnout. Meanwhile, the class-first drift brakes help the driver maintain control while drifting by only locking the rear wheels. Customizable Steering Control The Mustang tackles curves and bends with little difficulty, thanks to its electric power-assisted steering. You can customize the steering feel by cycling between three modes. Comfort mode reduces the amount of labor needed at the wheel, Sport mode gives more control by increasing the steering effort needed, while Normal mode strikes a balance between engagement and convenience. The Ford Mustang is among the last remaining American icons that continue to deliver the same legendary performance. Find out how you can make the pony car yours by contacting us at Ewald's Hartford Ford in Hartford, WI.

The Ford Escape is a thoughtfully designed SUV engineered to meet the challenges of the modern lifestyle. Explore the exciting features of the 2025 Ford Escape and discover automotive innovation and versatility like you've never experienced. The Innovative and Versatile 2025 Ford Escape: Inspired Performance for the Modern Lifestyle Performance-Driven Versatility The Ford Escape is engineered to meet the challenges of an active and busy lifestyle. Under the hood, the Escape is driven by a powerful yet efficient 1.5-liter turbocharged EcoBoost I-3 engine that produces a robust 180 horsepower and 199 lb-ft of torque for lively performance whenever and wherever it's needed. With a towing capacity of 2,000 pounds, the Escape has the power to trailer a small camper or a pair of jet skis for your next adventure. In addition to its dynamic capabilities, the 5-passenger Ford Escape delivers an exceptionally smooth and quiet ride thanks to its advanced 8-speed automatic transmission which evenly distributes torque at all speeds for lively acceleration and effortless cruising. To adapt to unpredictable driving conditions, the Escape offers Normal, Eco, Sport, and Slippery drive modes. more Outstanding Utility Whether you're exploring the local farmers market or trekking to faraway destinations, the Ford Escape offers outstanding utility to make every trip memorable. The spacious trunk offers 37.5 cubic feet of cargo space for groceries, luggage, and gear. For larger loads and bulkier items, the 60/40 split rear seats fold flat to expand the available space to a cavernous 65.4 cubic feet. Innovative Design Ford engineers have infused the Escape with innovative features that elevate comfort and convenience. Instead of a traditional gear shifter, the Escape utilizes a unique rotary dial that is intuitively easy to operate and frees up valuable center console space for beverage holders, USB charging ports, and extra storage. To keep the cabin comfortable for all occupants, the dual-zone automatic climate control system can maintain two temperature settings. Tech-Forward Cabin No matter where you're headed, the Ford Escape's tech-forward design will keep you and your passengers connected and entertained. The Escape is equipped with Ford's state-of-the-art SYNC 4 infotainment platform featuring a vibrant 8-inch LCD capacitive touchscreen, wireless Android and Apple smartphone compatibility, and a dynamic six-speaker audio system. To keep your devices charged and running, the Escape offers four USB charging ports. Advanced Safety One of the most innovative features of the Ford Escape is its advanced suite of safety technologies that actively monitor conditions around your SUV to keep you and your passengers safe. Notable safety measures include automatic emergency braking, automatic headlamps with courtesy delay, automatic high beams, blind spot monitoring, forward collision warning system, lane-keep assistance, pedestrian detection, and rear cross-traffic alert. To learn more about the Escape's innovative design, connect with the friendly Ford experts at Ewald's Hartford Ford in Hartford, WI to arrange a test drive today.

The most capable model in Ford's Super Duty lineup, the 2024 Ford F-450 SD can take care of all your heavy-duty tasks. It boasts more power than all other SD models and comes in versatile configurations for all your work purposes. 3 Features of the 2024 Ford F-450 SD Powerful Performance The 2024 F-450 SD is built for the heaviest tasks and comes with a rough powertrain that is capable of handling them. In the base configuration, it boasts a 6.7L Power Stroke V8 turbo diesel engine under the hood, churning out 475 horsepower and 1,050 lb-ft of torque. That's a lot more compared to the standard engine of the F-250 and F-350 models, meaning you can handle whatever the day is throwing your way. For even more power, you can upgrade to the available High-Output 6.7L Power Stroke V8 turbo diesel engine to get 500 horsepower and 1,200 lb-ft of torque for a maximum towing capacity of 40,000 lbs. Both engines mate with a TorqShift 10-speed automatic transmission with Normal, Eco, Slippery, and Tow/Haul modes, so you can easily adjust performance according to your needs or the terrain condition. more Cab Options for All Needs No matter what you need a truck for, you can easily find an F-450 SD configuration to suit you. Ford offers this heavy-duty truck in Regular Cab and Crew Cab options with seating capacities for three or six riders. Both styles come standard with a dual rear wheel setup that improves the load distribution and pair with an 8-foot box, providing plenty of cargo space for all your hauling needs. The Regular Cab configuration, equipped with the standard engine, boasts a maximum payload capacity of 6,297 lbs or 6,457 lbs with the High-Output engine. If you opt for the Crew Cab, expect maximum payload capacities between 5,622 and 5,638 lbs, depending on the engine. Smart Technologies Each trim level of the F-450 SD is packed with smart technologies ranging from fleet management systems to connectivity, entertainment, and driver assistance features. To check and improve your driving performance or manage your fleet, you can use Ford Telematics and Ford Data Services. FordPass Connect comes standard with available Wi-Fi hotspot capability, allowing you to connect up to 10 devices simultaneously. The SYNC 4 infotainment system, offered standard with an 8-inch touchscreen or an available 12-inch touchscreen, includes all popular functions you'd expect from a modern vehicle, such as smartphone integration, hands-free calls, and audio streaming via Bluetooth. The upper trim levels also boast SiriusXM with 360L and premium sound systems. Incredibly capable, versatile, and practical, the 2024 F-450 SD is your best choice for the heaviest work. Visit us at Ewald's Hartford Ford in Hartford, WI to discover all its features and try it on the road.

Your Ford EV is designed to deliver efficiency and performance, but even the most advanced cars need regular care. You'll need to learn your electric car's core maintenance requirements, some of which are similar to those of traditional cars, while some are unique for EVs. Here are five essential Ford EV maintenance tips. You can gain further guidance and servicing assistance at your local Ford dealer. 6 Care Tips for Your Ford EV Have Your Brakes Inspected Twice a Year The good news with EV brakes is that regenerative braking alleviates some strain on the main friction brakes. As EV drivers tend to use the friction brakes less, the brake pads and rotors wear down less rapidly. However, all brake parts gradually wear out and need replacements; therefore, both regenerative and friction brakes require routine inspections by a trusted technician. Twice a year is a good rule of thumb for these inspections. more Protect Your Battery From Extreme Temperatures Another bonus with EVs is how little maintenance the battery pack requires compared to a traditional gas engine. There's no motor oil to change, for example. Despite this, you can greatly extend your battery's life with a few upkeep principles. Firstly, avoid allowing your battery pack to get too hot or too cold. Always keep your battery's cooling system in good order and park under the shade or in a garage on hot days. Likewise, keep your car out of the cold during winter; if you don't have access to a garage, an insulated car cover can help. Keep Your Battery Moderately Charged EV battery packs degrade faster when fully charged or completely depleted. To maximize your battery's longevity, keep it in the optimal charging range between 20 to 80 percent. Rotate Your Tires at Your Ford Dealer Your tires are key to road safety, so never neglect to maintain them. Along with monthly air pressure checks, have your tires rotated by a professional twice a year. This keeps tire wear more uniform and helps the tires last longer. Change All Essential Vehicle Fluids Check your owner's manual for the fluids in your car. While your EV won't have motor oil (unless it's a hybrid with both a battery pack and gas engine), you may need to maintain and occasionally flush the liquid coolant in the battery's cooling system. The transmission fluid, brake fluid, power steering fluid, differential fluid, and windshield wiper fluid will also need to be looked after. Leave Your Ford EV Maintenance to Our Qualified Technicians Switching to an electric vehicle is a fine choice that requires a little getting used to. With a convenient servicing schedule arranged at your local dealership, we can make sure you never neglect to have any important maintenance carried out. Visit Ewald's Hartford Ford in Hartford, WI, to have your EV thoroughly serviced by experienced professionals. We're a well-reputed local dealership dedicated to providing sky-high customer satisfaction in all that we do.

Navigating off-road terrains as easily as it does city streets, the 2024 Ford Explorer hails from a legendary line of SUVs and brings strong performance, versatility, and pioneering tech features that separate it from others in its class. Introducing the 2024 Ford Explorer: Versatility and Comfort Potent Performance This edition of the Explorer offers two turbocharged EcoBoost engines to power your adventures, with most models coming with a 300-horsepower turbocharged 2.3-liter I-4 engine under the hood that produces 310 pound-feet of torque. Select trim levels like ST, King Ranch, and Platinum come with a 400-horsepower 3.0-liter V6 instead that boosts torque to 415 pound-feet, making both ideal for tackling challenges on- and off-road. more Off-Road Versatility While most 2024 Explorers come with rear-wheel drive, drivers looking to tackle rugged terrains with confidence will love the available Intelligent 4WD system, which comes standard on Timberline models. There's also the standard Terrain Management System, included with both rear- and four-wheel-drive versions. Comfort and Luxuries Inside the vehicle, three rows of seating provide plenty of space for passengers, with room for up to seven. Standard features include a second-row 35/30/35 split-fold-flat bench seat and a third-row 50/50 split-fold bench seat, as well as tri-zone climate control and a rear auxiliary climate control. Select upper trims also come with heated rear seats and heated and ventilated front seats. Rugged and Stylish Designed for both function and style, the Explorer's exterior features a power liftgate with chrome accents, privacy glass for the second and third rows, and a sleek rear spoiler. Additional options include a twin-panel moonroof, heated power-folding sideview mirrors, rain-sensing wipers, and LED fog lamps. Timberline models have the most rugged exterior though, as they come with roof rack side rails, front and rear skid plates, and front tow hooks. Tech for Everyone The SYNC 3 infotainment system, which comes entertainment options with hands-free calling and available navigation support, comes standard, as does a 4G LTE Wifi Hotspot. Other standard offerings include multiple USB ports, FordPass Connect access, and a customizable productivity screen in the instrument cluster. There's also an available 12-speaker B&O sound system, as well as the Universal Garage Door Opener and a wireless charging pad. Next-Level Safety This SUV also comes with Ford Co-Pilot360, a suite of sensor-based safety systems, which includes the Lane Keeping System, BLIS (Blind Spot Information System), Pre-Collision Assist, Auto High-Beam Headlamps, Rear Parking Sensors, the Rear View Camera, and Adaptive Cruise Control. Active Park Assist 2.0 is available to help you maneuver into and out of tight spaces, and the 360-degree camera provides views of both the vehicle and your surroundings using both bird's-eye and ground-level views. Come take your next adventure in the comfort and style that the 2024 Explorer provides by contacting us today at Ewald's Hartford Ford in Hartford, WI.

Combining all-electric performance with the truck qualities the brand is famous for, the 2024 Ford F-150 Lightning is perfect for environmentally friendly everyday trucking. Let's explore some of the features drivers love about this electric pickup. 6 Reasons Drivers Love the 2024 Ford F-150 Lightning Electrified Performance The F-150 Lightning comes with two powertrain options that deliver gas-like performance in a green package. Equipped with the Standard Range battery, the truck generates 452 horsepower for confident handling and spirited acceleration. An Extended Range battery boosts the model's net output to 580 horsepower for a lightning-fast 0-60 time of 3.8 seconds. With 775 lb-ft of torque, you can expect excellent traction on all roads. more Range to Go Far The Standard Range battery boasts an EPA-estimated range of 240 miles and is perfect for commuting. For longer journeys, the Extended Range battery comes with an estimated range of up to 320 miles. With fast-charging capability, you can get the battery from 15 to 80 percent in about 32 to 38 minutes. Outstanding Towing Power Whether you have to haul work equipment, outdoor gear, or a camping trailer, the F-150 Lightning is up for the task. With the standard equipment, the base XLT trim can pull up to 5,000 lbs. The available Max Trailer Tow Package boosts the towing capacity to 7,700 lbs, perfect for a wide range of toy trailers and Airstreams. If you need heavier-duty capacity, the LARIAT and FLASH trims can pull up to 10,000 lbs when properly equipped. Versatile Interior Features A comfortable cabin with seating for five makes the F-150 Lightning an excellent adventure vehicle, whether you're going solo or with your buddies. Cloth-trimmed front bucket seats with a center Flow-Through console come standard and provide customized support. At the back, a 60/40 flip-up bench allows you to transform the rear row into a cargo space, while an interior work surface on the center console transforms the cabin into a mobile office. Smart Storage Solutions A convenient Mega Power Frunk offers 14.1 cubic feet of covered storage area for luggage, groceries, and other items you don't want to expose to the elements. With four 120V power outlets, the frunk can also become a power hub for your tools and electronics in areas with no electricity access. Innovative Tech Features Each F-150 Lightning trim level is offered with a Pro Power Onboard panel and plenty of 120V outlets to power electronics while exploring the great outdoors or to use as a home backup system in the event of a blackout. Advanced tech features include an onboard scale with a smart hitch for easy trailer hitching and lots of driver assistance technologies, including Ford BlueCruise capability for hands-free driving on compatible highways. When you are ready to test all these features yourself, visit us at Ewald's Hartford Ford in Hartford, WI to take the F-150 Lightning for a spin.

Oil is essential for your engine and is the second most important vehicle fluid after fuel. As your Ford dealer, we want to tell you more about what it does for your engine and why a regular oil change is important. From Your Ford Dealer: What Oil Does and Why an Oil Change Is Important What Oil Does Oil is a lubricant that's pumped through your engine by the oil pump. It coats numerous engine components in a friction-resistant coating, allowing them to work faster while protecting them from damage. Its movement cools engine components, reducing the temperature in the engine bay. Finally, it contains additives that keep the engine clean, break down potential engine blockages, and prevent rust. Depending on your Ford model, you may have regular or synthetic oil. The two types of oil perform the same functions, but synthetic oil has a longer working life, so it's changed less frequently. Regular oil needs replacement after 3,000 to 5,000 miles, while synthetic oil should be replaced between 7,500 and 10,000 miles. more Why Change the Oil? Some of the oil is consumed by your engine as it works, reducing the pressure and speed of the remaining oil. The oil absorbs dirt, minute metal pieces, and other debris in the engine. This accumulated junk thickens the oil, slowing its movement. As the oil ages, it loses many of its benefits, leading to increased wear and tear on engine components. Signs You Need an Oil Change Noisy Engine The reduced lubrication from old oil causes some engine components to grind against each other rather than move smoothly. This produces tiny metal fragments, which are then absorbed by the oil, decreasing the oil's effectiveness even further. Blue Exhaust Smoke Blue-tinged exhaust smoke is a sign your engine is burning oil. The oil lubricates engine seals, but the poor lubrication from older oil causes them to dry out. This can allow some of the oil to enter the engine cylinders, where it's burnt with the fuel-air mixture. Reduced Fuel Economy Old oil forces your engine to work harder due to the friction caused by a lack of adequate lubrication, causing it to use more fuel. Check Engine Light The check engine light illuminates when engine sensors detect a problem in the engine and inform your computer. All the above signs will cause your computer to trigger this light as a warning something is wrong. IOLM Warning If your Ford has an Intelligent Oil Life Monitoring (ILOM) system, it will warn you when the oil has lost its effectiveness and needs replacement. A warning icon will appear on your screen to tell you to change the oil soon. Our technicians will change your oil and install a new oil filter, and your engine will return to peak efficiency. Contact our service department today at Ewald's Hartford Ford in Hartford, WI.

Owning a Ford is about more than just performance—it’s about making a lasting impression every time you hit the road. Whether you're cruising around Hartford or heading out on a road trip, maintaining your Ford’s appearance can enhance its resale value and keep it looking as fresh as the day you drove it off the lot. If you want to keep your vehicle showroom-ready, proper detailing is key. At Ewald’s Hartford Ford, we’ve gathered expert tips to help you maintain your Ford’s pristine condition inside and out. These simple yet effective steps will ensure your vehicle stands out for all the right reasons. Exterior Care in Hartford's Climate Ford vehicles are built tough, but they still need protection from the elements. Hartford’s ever-changing weather can take a toll on your vehicle’s exterior. Whether it's snow, rain, or the sun's rays, here’s how to keep your Ford's exterior looking flawless: Regular Washing Frequent washing is essential, especially if your Ford is regularly exposed to salt, dirt, or bird droppings. Wash your car every two weeks or more often in extreme conditions. Be sure to use a gentle car wash soap, as harsh detergents can strip away wax and paint protection. Focus on the wheel wells and undercarriage to remove salt and grime that can cause rust. Clay Bar Treatment After washing, use a clay bar to remove any embedded contaminants like tree sap, industrial fallout, or road tar. This step is often overlooked, but it’s critical in maintaining a smooth finish. Waxing for Protection A good coat of wax adds a layer of protection against dirt, water, and the harsh rays of the sun. Apply wax every three months, focusing on areas like the hood, roof, and doors, where wear and tear is most noticeable. For extra protection, consider using a synthetic sealant. Paint Touch-Ups Even with the best care, small dings or chips can appear over time. Keep a bottle of touch-up paint in your vehicle’s color for quick fixes. Not only will this help maintain a flawless exterior, but it will also prevent rust from setting in. more Interior Detailing: Comfort and Cleanliness The inside of your Ford is where you spend most of your time, and a clean, well-maintained interior can make every drive more enjoyable. Here are some tips for keeping the cabin pristine: Vacuum Regularly Vacuuming your car’s interior, including the seats, carpets, and floor mats, is crucial in removing dirt and debris that can cause wear. Pay attention to hidden corners and under the seats where dirt tends to accumulate. For added detail, use a crevice tool to reach tight spaces. Clean Upholstery with Care Depending on whether your Ford has leather, cloth, or synthetic upholstery, use the right cleaning products. Leather seats require special cleaners and conditioners to maintain their supple texture, while fabric seats benefit from a good upholstery cleaner and brush to lift stains. Regular cleaning prevents buildup and helps maintain that fresh look. Dashboard and Console Care Dust and grime accumulate on dashboards, center consoles, and around controls, which can be a headache to clean. Use a microfiber cloth to gently wipe down surfaces and avoid scratching the plastic or wood accents. Apply a non-greasy protectant to keep surfaces looking new while preventing UV damage. Air Fresheners and Odor Control A clean interior isn’t just about how it looks—it’s also about how it smells. Air fresheners, fabric sprays, or essential oils can keep your Ford smelling great. For stubborn odors, a professional ozone treatment may be needed to eliminate unwanted scents, such as smoke or pet odors. Attention to Detail for Maximum Value The finer details can make a huge difference in keeping your Ford looking showroom-ready for longer. Here's a final list of detailing essentials: Wheel Care: Clean your wheels regularly to remove brake dust, which can cause corrosion. Use a dedicated wheel cleaner for the best results. Glass Cleaning: Dirty windows can be a safety hazard, not to mention they’re just plain unsightly. Clean both the inside and outside of your windows with a streak-free glass cleaner to ensure clarity. Tire Dressing: A coat of tire dressing not only makes your tires look glossy and new but also helps protect the rubber from cracking and drying out. Headlights and Taillights: Over time, headlights can fog up and lose their clarity. Use a headlight restoration kit to remove oxidation and keep your lights shining brightly. Schedule a Professional Detailing at Ewald’s Hartford Ford While maintaining your vehicle’s appearance on your own is important, sometimes a professional touch can make all the difference. At Ewald’s Hartford Ford, we offer expert detailing services that include everything from a basic wash to comprehensive interior and exterior care. Our experienced technicians will treat your Ford with the same attention to detail that you would, ensuring it’s showroom-ready every time you drive off our lot. Taking care of your Ford means taking care of your investment. By following these easy yet effective detailing tips, you’ll keep your vehicle looking its best and ensure it retains its value for years to come. Visit Ewald’s Hartford Ford today, and let us help you keep your Ford in pristine condition, no matter where the road takes you.

As winter sets in, the demands on your 2024 Ford F-150 Lightning grow more complex. This all-electric powerhouse, while built to tackle various conditions, still requires attention to ensure it’s fully prepared for the icy roads, sub-zero temperatures, and unforeseen weather changes. Whether you’re navigating snowy streets in Hartford or heading out on longer winter expeditions, taking care of a few key areas will help your F-150 Lightning thrive during the colder months. 1. Battery Care in Extreme Cold Winter poses unique challenges for electric vehicles, and the 2024 F-150 Lightning is no exception. In frigid temperatures, the battery's performance can dip, affecting both range and efficiency. Cold air slows the chemical reactions inside the battery, which can drain it faster than usual. To combat this, always try to keep your truck plugged in overnight, especially during extreme cold. This ensures that your battery is preconditioned and ready for use when you start your day. If you're in Hartford, Ewald’s Hartford Ford can provide expert advice on battery maintenance, ensuring the longevity of your truck’s power source through winter. Regular charging habits—avoiding letting it dip below 20%—will also help maintain battery health. more 2. Tire Pressure and Traction Cold weather can significantly reduce tire pressure, and this is particularly critical for your 2024 F-150 Lightning, given its heavy build and powerful electric motor. Low tire pressure reduces grip on icy surfaces, creating dangerous driving conditions. Under-inflated tires wear out more quickly and decrease the overall efficiency of the vehicle. Regularly check tire pressure during the winter months, especially if you notice any fluctuation in temperature. The Lightning’s onboard systems can alert you if there’s an issue, but manual checks are always a good practice. For optimal winter traction, consider upgrading to winter tires. Ewald’s Hartford Ford can assist with tire inspections and provide recommendations tailored to Hartford’s unique climate. 3. Keep Your Brakes in Top Condition Braking systems function differently in icy conditions, and the F-150 Lightning’s regenerative braking system—designed to recover energy during braking—may react unpredictably on slick surfaces. This is where regular brake maintenance becomes essential. Ensure that your brake pads are in excellent condition before the snow starts to accumulate. This includes checking the discs and inspecting the braking fluid. If you’re unsure about the health of your braking system, have it checked out at Ewald’s Hartford Ford. Their certified technicians will ensure that your truck is fully prepared for winter driving, helping maintain your safety on the road. 4. Protect Your Exterior from Salt Damage Salt is a necessity for maintaining road safety in winter, but it’s a silent enemy to your vehicle’s exterior. Over time, road salt can corrode your truck’s body, eating away at the paint and metal surfaces. This is particularly concerning for the F-150 Lightning, where preserving both aesthetics and performance is key. Washing your truck more frequently during the winter months—preferably after a snowstorm—can remove the buildup of salt and other corrosive materials. Additionally, applying a layer of wax can act as a barrier, protecting the vehicle’s finish. For those in the Hartford area, Ewald’s Hartford Ford offers detailing services that can keep your F-150 Lightning looking pristine despite the harsh winter elements. 5. Winter Tires Are a Must If you live in an area like Hartford, where winter roads can quickly become slippery and hazardous, investing in a set of high-quality winter tires for your F-150 Lightning is crucial. Unlike all-season tires, winter tires are designed to perform in freezing temperatures, providing superior grip on snow and ice. The rubber compounds used in winter tires remain pliable in low temperatures, ensuring better traction. This makes navigating snow-packed streets and icy highways much safer. For personalized advice on the best winter tire options for your truck, visit Ewald’s Hartford Ford, where you can speak with a knowledgeable expert who can help you choose the right tires for the season. 6. Use Preconditioning Features Wisely Your 2024 F-150 Lightning is equipped with impressive climate controls that can be used to precondition the cabin and optimize the battery’s performance. By preconditioning your truck while it’s still plugged in, you can warm up the interior and ensure the battery is at an ideal temperature for driving without drawing power from the battery itself. Use the FordPass app to schedule and control these preconditioning features remotely. This not only ensures a comfortable ride but helps preserve your truck’s range on colder mornings. For more detailed tips on using your vehicle's winter-specific features, Ewald’s Hartford Ford can show you how to get the most out of your truck's technology. Preparing your 2024 Ford F-150 Lightning for the winter months is crucial to ensure it continues to perform at its best, no matter what the season throws your way. By focusing on battery health, tire pressure, brake maintenance, and exterior protection, you can safeguard your vehicle against the cold and harsh conditions. For expert assistance and winter-ready service, visit Ewald’s Hartford Ford, where our team is dedicated to keeping your truck in top condition all year long.

When you've decided on your next Ford, you have the choice between leasing vs buying. They're both good options, and the best choice for you depends on your needs and situation. As your Ford dealership, we're here to help you with whichever option you choose. To help make your decision easier, we want to tell you the benefits of both choices. Advice From Your Ford Dealership: The Choice Between Leasing vs Buying Leasing When you lease, you complete a lease agreement for the Ford you want for three to five years. You choose the deposit you want to make, and you pay monthly installments. At the end of the lease agreement, you can buy the vehicle, extend your lease, or start a new lease for a different Ford. Leasing benefits include: more No Maintenance Charges All regular maintenance is performed for free for the duration of the lease agreement. This saves you money as you don't have to budget for these costs. Lower Monthly Charges Monthly installments for leasing are lower than monthly installments on a car loan, which also reduces your costs. More Bang for Your Buck Since leasing costs are generally lower, you can choose a higher-trim than you may have been able to purchase. Tax Incentives If you're using your Ford for work, there can be tax advantages your accountant will be able to advise you about. Hassle-Free Upgrade Option When your lease is up, you can choose a new lease and a new car without worrying about trade-in values or finding a buyer for your old car. Buying When you buy, you purchase your new Ford for cash or through finance. It becomes your property. Other benefits of buying include: Ownership Rights You can later choose to sell it, donate it, give it as a gift, or trade it in toward a newer model. No Mileage Limitations When you lease, your agreement includes a fixed monthly or annual mileage. If you exceed this mileage, you must pay for additional miles traveled. You Can Customize As the owner, you can add any accessories you want, which isn't an option when you lease. A leased vehicle must be returned in the same condition it was leased, aside from natural wear and tear. Lower Cost for Cash If you have a lump sum of cash, you save money by buying your new car, as you won't have to pay interest. These savings can add up if you calculate the total over the three to seven years of a finance agreement. You can pay a lease agreement in full when it starts, but that doesn't reduce its cost. If you'd like to know more about leasing or buying, contact our finance department today at Ewald's Hartford Ford in Hartford, WI.

Your Ford EV is designed to deliver efficiency and performance, but even the most advanced cars need regular care. You'll need to learn your electric car's core maintenance requirements, some of which are similar to those of traditional cars, while some are unique for EVs. Here are five essential Ford EV maintenance tips. You can gain further guidance and servicing assistance at your local Ford dealer. 6 Care Tips for Your Ford EV Have Your Brakes Inspected Twice a Year The good news with EV brakes is that regenerative braking alleviates some strain on the main friction brakes. As EV drivers tend to use the friction brakes less, the brake pads and rotors wear down less rapidly. However, all brake parts gradually wear out and need replacements; therefore, both regenerative and friction brakes require routine inspections by a trusted technician. Twice a year is a good rule of thumb for these inspections. more Protect Your Battery From Extreme Temperatures Another bonus with EVs is how little maintenance the battery pack requires compared to a traditional gas engine. There's no motor oil to change, for example. Despite this, you can greatly extend your battery's life with a few upkeep principles. Firstly, avoid allowing your battery pack to get too hot or too cold. Always keep your battery's cooling system in good order and park under the shade or in a garage on hot days. Likewise, keep your car out of the cold during winter; if you don't have access to a garage, an insulated car cover can help. Keep Your Battery Moderately Charged EV battery packs degrade faster when fully charged or completely depleted. To maximize your battery's longevity, keep it in the optimal charging range between 20 to 80 percent. Rotate Your Tires at Your Ford Dealer Your tires are key to road safety, so never neglect to maintain them. Along with monthly air pressure checks, have your tires rotated by a professional twice a year. This keeps tire wear more uniform and helps the tires last longer. Change All Essential Vehicle Fluids Check your owner's manual for the fluids in your car. While your EV won't have motor oil (unless it's a hybrid with both a battery pack and gas engine), you may need to maintain and occasionally flush the liquid coolant in the battery's cooling system. The transmission fluid, brake fluid, power steering fluid, differential fluid, and windshield wiper fluid will also need to be looked after. Leave Your Ford EV Maintenance to Our Qualified Technicians Switching to an electric vehicle is a fine choice that requires a little getting used to. With a convenient servicing schedule arranged at your local dealership, we can make sure you never neglect to have any important maintenance carried out. Visit Ewald's Hartford Ford in Hartford, WI, to have your EV thoroughly serviced by experienced professionals. We're a well-reputed local dealership dedicated to providing sky-high customer satisfaction in all that we do.