Blog

Cars are sturdy pieces of machinery that last a long time, but they do occasionally need repairs. If you know what happens when your car needs a transmission repair, then you know to head to the Ford dealer quickly to get the problem fixed. Fixing issues ASAP stops them from getting too serious and costing you a lot of time and money to repair. 4 Signs You Need a Transmission Repair From Your Ford Dealer 1. Strange Engine Noises Problems with the transmission are often accompanied by clanking or humming noises coming from the engine. These noises will be obvious when you’re changing gears. Even if the noise is faint, it’s generally a sign of trouble. Cars don’t start making new noises for no reason, so hearing new sounds means you should get right to the dealer. If you’re also noticing noises while your car is in neutral, then it’s definitely a sign that there’s something wrong with the transmission. You might just need some new transmission fluid, or maybe a small part needs to be replaced. 2. Trouble Shifting Gears If you can’t shift from one gear into another, then your transmission is most definitely in trouble. Even if you can shift but your car takes a little more time than usual to respond after shifting, then there’s a problem. People with manual transmissions may also notice it’s very hard to get the gear shifter into place, and it might pop out of place a few times before you can get it to stay. 3. Transmission Fluid Leaks The car is full of different fluids, so it’s always a good idea to check the area around the car before you drive off. If you spot any mysterious puddles that seem to be coming up from underneath your car, then one of those fluids might be leaking out. Transmission fluid is one of the easiest to recognize, as it’s red. Although, if the fluid is a little older, then it might be light brown instead. You should also keep an eye on your fluid levels and take note if you seem to be losing fluid rapidly. Falling fluid levels indicate a leak. 4. Burning Odor If it smells like there’s something burning in the cabin of your car, then your transmission fluid might be overheating and burning up. The smell won’t necessarily be noticeable in the cabin, but it may be noticeable if you pop the hood. Either way, it’s a sign that you should get your transmission checked out as soon as you can. Come by Kory Hooks Ford if your car or truck is displaying any of the signs we’ve talked about above. Transmission problems are generally pretty easy to fix if caught early, so you’ll be driving again in no time.

Maintaining your Ford at peak performance requires giving attention to all components, and that includes the tires. It’s important to be able to recognize the signs of wear and when you need to make a visit to your local Ford dealer for some new tires. Do You Need New Tires From Your Ford Dealer? Are You Seeing Uneven Wear? Patterns of uneven wear can tell you a lot about your tires. Here’s what to look for: Cupping: A series of scalloped dips appearing around the edge of the tread Patchy Wear: Random bald spots around the tire Feathering: When the edge of each tread rib develops a slightly rounded edge on one side and a sharp edge on the other These uneven wear patterns might point to issues with alignment, suspension, or even the tire itself. They mean the tires aren’t all being worn down evenly, so something is awry. Can You See Damage? Look for cuts, punctures, or stones trapped in the tread. Any foreign object can cause slow leaks or, if deep enough, weaken the tire’s structure. Are You Getting Frequent Loss of Pressure? Consistent drops in tire pressure over short periods could hint at punctures, leaks, or problems with the tire bead, even if you can’t see anything wrong. This isn’t just about keeping the tire inflated; low pressure affects fuel efficiency, handling, and the overall life span of the tire. Is Your Tread Depth Getting Low? The depth of the tread is important: tread ensures a firm grip on the road, especially in bad weather. Use the penny test to check your tires quickly. Insert a penny with Lincoln’s head facing downward into the tread, and if you can see all of Lincoln’s head, the tread depth is likely below 2/32 inch and you need a replacement. Are There Sidewall Cracks or Bulges? Resulting from age, exposure, or other environmental factors, cracks on the sidewall can grow over time, endangering the tire’s structural integrity. Bulges are usually caused by internal damage, and these weak spots can lead to sudden blowouts. A bulge implies that the tire’s inner layer has been compromised, allowing air to reach the outer layers. Are You Feeling Excessive Vibration? Minor vibrations are expected, but if your Ford starts shaking more than it used to, especially at certain speeds, it could be an internal tire issue or problems with alignment. These vibrations aren’t just uncomfortable: they can be a precursor to much bigger problems if left unfixed. How Old Are Your Tires? Regardless of tread appearance or mileage, tires have a shelf life. With time, rubber degrades, so even if a tire looks pristine, if it’s over six years old, consider an inspection or replacement. Being proactive in spotting tire issues can save you from unexpected expenses and dangers on the road. If you’re ever in doubt, contact Kory Hooks Ford right away.