Celebrate the Holidays Safely with Your Four Legged Friends | North County Ford

It is time to start gearing up if you plan to bring your furry friend with you this holiday.  

Millions will take to the roads over the Christmas period, making it one of the busiest times of year to travel. Many of us have our families spread far and wide and will be taking a trip over the festive period to share time with our loved ones.
As dog owners we don’t want to leave our furry family member alone for Christmas, as a family celebration it wouldn’t feel right not to have him involved in the festivities. Finding someone to feed your dog whilst you’re away is extremely difficult over this period, most people are too busy celebrating and enjoying their families company to pop over and feed, water and walk the dog. For many of us the only option is to take our four legged friend with us at Christmas.

Every summer we are reminded of the dangers of taking or leaving a dog in a hot car however literature on travelling with a dog in the winter is a lot less common. If you’re travelling with your dog this winter remember to consider the following to ensure he is as comfortable and safe as possible.

Keeping Warm

Whilst you and I will wrap up in hats, scarves, gloves and coats dogs only have a slightly thicker coat in the winter to keep the cold out and the heat in – winter can be bone chillingly cold. You may have the heat on in the car but the boot area where you keep your dog will be cooler than the rest of the car. Invest in a dog jacket like this fleece lined one, if you have a smaller dog or a dog who is more sensitive to heat purchase a blanket for the back of your car that he can use if he needs to.
Protecting your Dog (And You)

We’ve all heard the warnings, if you don’t wear a seatbelt and you have an accident you could injure the person in front of you or go through the windshield. Whilst most of us are sensible enough to wear a seatbelt now that we fully understand the dangers and fines have been introduced, cars don’t come fitted with a doggy-belt and his safety is as paramount as yours. Ensure you purchase either a dog car cage, dog safety harness (like a seat belt) or a dog guard. These products will not only ensure your dog’s safety but will also protect you from being distracted by your dog climbing into the front of the car – or onto your lap.

Protecting your Car
Whilst your dog may be the calmest of dogs at home, a car journey can be both exciting and traumatic for your pup. Your dog could get travel sick, away from his usual surroundings he may be unable to let you know he needs the bathroom and he may get over excited and scratch and chew at the fixtures. In order to prevent this it is best to purchase a waterproof car protector for any journey’s you take with your dog. Allow your dog to spend some time in the car protector in the house before you first take him in the car, place a couple of the dogs toys or blankets in the car protector on your first journey – the smells and toys will be familiar comforting him and making the journey less traumatic for your dog.

Things to Remember

• Antifreeze is an essential to the winter and also delicious but highly dangerous for your dog. Keep dogs away from bottles or antifreeze you may usually keep in your trunk.
• Cars in the cold do the opposite of cars in the heat – instead of an oven your car becomes a refrigeration unit. If you leave a dog in the car in the winter the temperature can plummet dangerously low.
• Do not feed your dog a large meal before taking him in the car.
• If your journey is longer than two hours make sure you stop every two hours for him to stretch his legs, use the bathroom and drink some water.
• Take your dog for a long walk before an extended drive, this will tire him out and he will be more inclined to rest and possibly sleep for the journey.

Source: http://www.petguide.com/insurance/dog/tips-for-travelling-with-your-dog-over-the-christmas-holidays/

Safety Tips for Winter Driving in California | North County Ford

Automobile associations, law enforcement groups and other organizations that follow cars and traffic often come out with a set of safety checks for drivers during the winter. The tips have little use for Southern California drivers, who would see a near shutdown of freeways and streets if by some strange weather quirk they had to confront snow.

But mindful that we are not weather-challenged, auto information company Edmunds.com has come out with a set of safety tips for Sun Belt drivers as we head into the rainy season.

Check your tire pressure: Tire pressure is important because traction declines in wet conditions. Also, a properly inflated tire will help protect against wheel damage that might occur as the vehicle drives over potholes. Read your owner's manual to find the correct tire pressure.

Inspect the wipers and check wiper fluid: Visibility is often compromised in the winter by rain and reduced daylight. The life expectancy of a wiper blade is one year. If your car's blades are older, replace them.

Make sure your four-wheel drive system works: A big selling point for SUVs is that many offer four-wheel drive, which improves traction in snow and other slippery conditions. But many people don't use their 4WD systems very often, especially in places such as Southern California. Make sure the system engages and disengages smoothly, and that there are no strange noises emanating from the drive-train when the system is in use. If there are multiple drivers for your vehicle, make sure each of them knows how to operate the 4WD system.


Check your defoggers: Rain and dampness put windshield defoggers to the test. Make sure they are in working order and that all the drivers of the vehicle know how to operate them.

Keep in mind each of these items will be inspected when you bring your vehicle in for regularly scheduled maintenance. You can schedule an appointment today online. 

Carry an emergency kit: In earthquake-prone Southern California, this is a good idea for winter and the rest of the year. You can purchase a pre-assembled kit or do it yourself. Be sure to include:

• A flashlight, flares and a first-aid kit.
• Jumper cables, a tool kit and tire chains.
• A blanket, warm clothes, hat and gloves.
• Paper towels.
• A bag of abrasive material, such as sand, salt or non-clumping kitty litter. Use this for added traction when a tire is stuck.
• Extra washer fluid.
• Extra food and water.

Source: http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/money_co/2011/10/winter-driving-tips-warm-weather-states.html

Driving at Night | North County Ford

As Fall Back looms around the corner, it is time to remember safety tips for the driving in the dark.

Drive more slowly at night because you cannot see as far ahead and you will have less time to stop for a hazard. Make sure you can stop within the distance lighted by your headlights.

Use your low-beam headlights at night when it rains. Do not drive using only your parking lights.

Use your high-beam headlights whenever possible in open country or dark city streets, as long as it is not illegal. Do not blind other drivers with your high-beam headlights. Dim your lights when necessary. If another driver does not dim his or her lights:

• Do not look directly into the oncoming headlights.
• Look toward the right edge of your lane
• Watch the oncoming vehicle out of the corner of your eye
• Do not try to "get back" at the other driver by keeping your bright lights on. If you do, both of you may be blinded.

When you drive at night, remember:

• Pedestrians and bicyclist are much harder to see at night; stay alert6 for them
• Motorcycles are also harder to see at night because most have only one taillight.
• Highway construction can take place at night. Reduce your speed in highway construction zones.
• When you leave a brightly-lit place, drive slowly until your eyes adjust to the darkness.
• Drive as fa the the right as possible, when a vehicle with one light drives toward you. It could be a bicyclist or motorcyclist, but it could also be a vehicle with a missing headlight.

Here are Fun Facts to Think of the Next Time You are in for Vehicle Maintenance | North County Ford

Five Fun Facts About Vehicle Maintenance

Even if you're serious about maintaining your automobile, you'll enjoy these five fun facts about car maintenance.While there are many things you need to do to keep your car running smoothly, these are a few of the tasks associated with basic automobile maintenance:

• Changing the oil and replacing the oil filter
• Rotating and replacing tires
• Checking and replacing wiper blades
• Checking fluid levels
• Checking and replacing brake pads and rotors

While many of these tasks don't seem very exciting, you might be surprised by the following little-known facts about them.

Almost 900 Million Oil Changes Each Year

In 2007, drivers in the United States registered over 254 million passenger vehicles. On average, Americans drive their passenger cars and trucks just over 10,000 miles per year, and they get an oil change every 3,000 miles. That translates to nearly 900 million oil changes!

Different models of cars and trucks take different amounts of oil, but most engines require 5 to 7 quarts. That means that in one year, Americans use at least 1.1 billion gallons of oil in their vehicles. Much of this oil is reused and recycled.

The First Auto Tires Were Like Bike Tires

Decades ago, drivers had to replace their tires far more frequently than we do today. These days, it's not uncommon to get 50,000 miles or more on a single set of auto tires, but this longevity is due to the advanced technology and materials used to produce modern tires. Radial belts, synthetic and natural rubber components, and body plies, or layers, give today's tires a long lifespan.When inventor Philip Strauss designed the first tire in 1911, the structure of tires was very different. These tires were closer in design to bicycle tires, featuring an inner tube that was inflated to provide a firm base for the outer rubber shell.

Windshield Wipers Were Invented by a Woman

Next time you're driving in a rainstorm, you can thank Mary Anderson, who invented windshield wipers in 1903. Anderson was visiting New York City and noticed that the streetcar driver had to keep his window open in a sleet storm in order to reach his arm out of the car and manually clean his windshield with a squeegee. Anderson received a patent for the windshield wiper, but she couldn't sell the invention to the auto companies, who claimed that the device did not have commercial value. After Anderson's patent ran out in 1920, windshield wipers eventually became a standard feature on automobiles.Today, changing windshield wipers is an important part of automotive maintenance. Wiper blades come in a wide variety of shapes and sizes, and some are even heated to help keep your windshield clean in icy conditions.

Your Car Uses Six Primary Fluids

Think you can get away with just changing your oil? Think again! Believe it or not, you car actually uses six different fluids:

• Motor oil
• Coolant
• Power steering fluid
• Brake fluid
• Transmission fluid
• Windshield washer fluid

It's important to replenish and change these fluids according to the car's maintenance schedule, and it's also imperative that you properly dispose of the old fluids. Many of these substances are hazardous to people and animals.

Antilock Brakes Were Invented Over 50 Years Ago

Even though they are a fairly recent safety feature on most passenger cars, antilock brakes have actually been around for half a century. The British company, Road Research Laboratories, created an anti-skid braking system in 1958. The system, called "Maxaret," was used in production in 1966 on the Jensen FF Sports Sedan.

Initially, Maxaret and other antilock braking systems were simply too expensive for automakers, but advances in computerized braking now make it possible to get antilock brakes on almost any new car.
Final Words

While auto maintenance may not be the most scintillating topic of conversation for most people, it's something all vehicle owners have to perform. Next time you're in the waiting room of the car garage, you can entertain the other auto owners with these fun facts about car maintenance.

Source: http://cars.lovetoknow.com/Fun_Facts_About_Car_Maintenance

Time To Check Your Roadside Emergency Kit | North County Ford

September is National Preparedness Month, it is time to think about your car. From a flat tire to an accident, are you prepared for a roadside emergency?  

When it comes to commuting or traveling any lengthy distance, a roadside emergency kit can mean the difference between getting back on the road or being stuck for a long period of time. A roadside emergency kit is the one item that every vehicle should have; yet most of us never carry any of the basic items to help you get back on the road quickly and safely.

A fully stocked roadside emergency kit could include:

• 12-foot Jumper Cables
• Four 15-minute Roadside Flares or Triangle Reflector
• Two Quarts of Oil
• Gallon of Antifreeze
• First Aid Kit (including an assortment of bandages, gauze, adhesive tape, antiseptic cream, instant ice and heat compresses, scissors and aspirin)
• Blanket
• Extra Fuses
• Flashlight and Extra Batteries
• Flat Head Screwdrivers
• Phillips Head Screwdrivers
• Pliers
• Vise Grips
• Adjustable Wrench
• Tire Inflator (such as a Fix-A-Flat)
• Tire Pressure Gauge
• Rags
• Roll of Paper Towels
• Roll of Duct Tape
• Spray Bottle with Washer Fluid
• Pocketknife
• Ice Scraper
• Pen and Paper
• Help Sign
• Granola or Energy Bars
• Bottled Water
• Heavy-Duty Nylon Bag (to carry it all in)

A basic version can take up a minimal amount of truck space:

• Two Roadside Flares or Triangle Reflector 
• Quart of Oil
• Small First Aid Kit
• Extra Fuses
• Flashlight
• Multipurpose (tool commonly containing pliers, wire cutters, knife, saw, bottle opener, screwdrivers, files and an awl)
• Tire Inflator
• Rags
• Pocket Knife
• Pen and Paper
• Help Sign 

Before you actually use your kit in an emergency situation, take some time to familiarize yourself with the items you've collected and how to use them properly. Also remember that the most important item is your own good judgment - stopping to change a tire in the high-speed lane is only an accident waiting to happen.

Unfortunately, there isn't "one tool for all roadside emergency needs." But with a little planning and a smidgen of trunk space, an emergency roadside kit can often save the day.

Source: http://www.edmunds.com/how-to/how-to-create-your-own-roadside-emergency-kit.html

School Zone Safety Tips | North County Ford

Keeping Children Safe

Parents and caregivers who drive on campus and in neighborhoods near school can plan an important role in enhancing safety near schools by following safe driving practices. At arrival and dismissal times, drivers are often in a hurry and distracted which can lead to unsafe conditions for students and others walking, bicycling and driving in the area.

Drivers should always:

• Slow down and obey all traffic laws and speed limits, both in school zones and in
  
  neighborhoods surrounding the school. 
• Comply with local school drop-off and pick-up procedures for the safety of all children accessing the school. 
• Avoid double parking or stopping on crosswalks to let children out of the car. Double parking will block visibility for other children and other motorists. Visibility is further reduced during the rain and fog seasons when condensation forms on car windows. 
• Avoid loading or unloading children at locations across the street from the school. This forces youngsters to unnecessarily cross busy streets—often mid-block rather than at a crosswalk. 
• Prepare to stop for a school bus when overhead yellow lights are flashing. Drive with
  
  
  caution when you see yellow hazard warning lights are flashing on a moving or stopped bus. 
• Stop for a school bus with its red overhead lights flashing, regardless of the
  
  direction from which the driver is approaching. Drivers must not proceed until the school bus resumes motion and the red lights stop flashing, or until signaled by the school bus driver to proceed. 
• Watch for children walking or bicycling (both on the road and the sidewalk) in areas near a school. 
• Watch for children playing and gathering near bus stops. Watch for children arriving late for the bus, who may dart into the street without looking for traffic. 
• Watch for children walking or biking to school when backing up (out of a driveway or leaving a garage).

Source: http://apps.saferoutesinfo.org/lawenforcement/resources/driving_tips.cfm

Getting Your Teen Their First Car: A How To

Make sure you're setting them up for safety right from the start.

1. Choose the Right Car

Let's face it, if you left the decision up to your teen, you would probably end up with either a huge SUV or a suped up sports car, neither of which is particularly safe for a young, new driver. However, there are plenty of options out there to make both you and your teen happy. And with the right research, you can find a car that is not only fun to drive, but also safe and reliable, too.

Choosing a midsize car is the best way to go, according to The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety and the Insurance Information Institute. Depending on your budget, you can opt for either a new or used model - just make sure the car is in good condition with updated safety features like airbags and electronic stability control. Also, you'll want to check out crash test and safety ratings before making your final purchase.

Fuel efficiency is another important factor to consider, especially in today's economy. Unless you're willing to cover the cost of filling your son or daughter's tank each week, buying your teen a gas guzzler is probably not a good idea.

2. Get the Best Auto Insurance Rate

The truth is that no matter what car you choose, insuring your teen driver will increase your auto insurance rates. But there are some things that you can do to make these costs as manageable as possible. In fact, another great reason to opt for safety first at the car dealership is that it can help keep your auto insurance premiums down. Because safer cars tend to have a lower accident risk, they are usually less expensive to insure.

Another way to get the best auto insurance rates possible is to scope out potential discounts. If your teen is a full-time student, for instance, he or she may be eligible for a good student discount. Researching your options beforehand will help you to make an informed decision when trying to find the right car for your teen.

3. Set Boundaries

Choosing a good car and purchasing the right auto insurance are only the first steps in keeping your teen safe on the road. Talking with your teen about safe driving and setting clear rules and guidelines are also important. To ensure that your teen stays safe behind the wheel, you can:

• Limit the number of passengers your teen can have in his or her car at any one time;
• Establish a "no cell phone" policy to ensure that your teen does not text or call while driving;
• Discuss what to do in cases of emergency, including accidents and adverse weather conditions.

Staying on top of your car's systems during the height of summer can help ensure a comfortable and safe ride.

Summer can be tough on cars, especially during high temperatures when heat can destroy batteries and stress the cooling system and tires. As a precaution, these vehicle components should be checked periodically during summer to help avoid breakdowns and car problems, according to the Car Care Council.

Excessive heat and overcharging shorten the life of a battery. Heat causes battery fluid to evaporate, which then damages the internal structure of the battery. A malfunctioning component in the charging system, usually the voltage regulator, allows too high a charging rate, which will eventually destroy a battery.

To get the most life out of a battery, the council recommends having the electrical system checked to make sure it is charging at the correct rate. If your car's battery is the type that needs to be topped off, check it often, especially in hot weather and add distilled water if necessary. Keep the top of the battery clean. Dirt can become a conductor, which drains battery power. If corrosion accumulates on battery terminals, it becomes an insulator and inhibits the current flow.

The cooling system also works harder during hot temperatures to prevent overheating of the engine. To keep the cooling system working effectively, the coolant and distilled water mixture for a vehicle's radiator should be 50:50. As a reminder, never open a hot radiator cap when checking the coolant level in the reservoir.

As a rule of thumb, the coolant should be changed annually on most vehicles. This will keep the cooling system fresh and clean inside, which helps prevent corrosion and assures that the coolant has the proper boiling point and protection. A pressure test, thermostat test, a cooling fan test and a visual inspection for leaks and corrosion should also be done annually. Hoses and drive belts should be checked for cracks, bulges or frayed edges.

The radiator should be kept clean by periodically using a garden hose and a soft brush to carefully remove bugs, dirt and debris.

Tires also need special care in warmer weather as high temperatures put added stress on them. To maximize tire life and safety, check the tire condition and inflation pressure monthly, and have the tires rotated every 6,000 miles. Summer heat will cause the pressure within a tire to rise, therefore, it's important to check the pressure when tires are cold. The owner's manual includes the recommended air pressure for your vehicle's tires.

"It takes very little time and money to make sure your car runs properly during summer, and although breakdowns happen, they can definitely be minimized by taking a few extra preventive maintenance steps," said Rich White, executive director, Car Care Council.

The council reminds motorists that the vehicle's exterior also can be damaged by sunlight, UV radiation, acid rain, salt, dirt and air pollution. To protect the paint and finish, vehicles should be washed weekly and waxed every six months.

The Car Care Council is the source of information for the "Be Car Care Aware" consumer education campaign promoting the benefits of regular vehicle care, maintenance and repair to consumers. For a copy of the council's Car Care Guide or for more information, visithttp://www.carcare.org/.

Source: Car Care Council

Traveling with your Dog | North County Ford

Taking your dog along can make the family vacation more fun for everyone, if you plan carefully. 

Here are some trip tips to make traveling with your dog enjoyable.

HEALTH AND SAFETY

• Health Checks. Bring your dog to the vet's for a check up before going on an extended trip. Make sure all his vaccinations are up to date; shot records with you. Health certifications are required for airline travel.
• To keep your dog healthy as you travel, bring along a supply of his regular food and some local, or bottled, water. Be sure to bring any medications he needs.

CRATES

• A crate is an excellent way to keep your dog safe in the car, and is required for airline travel. It can also keep your pet from getting into trouble in a hotel or at your host's home. Crates are available from most pet supply stores. Look for these features when purchasing:
• Large enough to allow the dog to stand, turn and lie down.
• Strong, with handles and grips, and free of interior protrusions.
• Leak-proof bottom covered with absorbent material.
• Ventilation on opposing sides, with exterior rims or knobs to prevent blocked airflow.
• "Live Animal" label, arrows upright, with owner's name, address and phone number.
• Stock the crate with a comfortable mat, your dog's favorite toy, and a water bottle, and your dog is ready to go.

IDENTIFICATION

• In the event that your dog gets away from you on your trip, you can increase the chances of recovery by making sure he can be properly identified:
• Make sure your dog has a sturdy leash and collar. The collar should have identification tags with the dog's name, your name, and your home phone number, as well as proof of rabies shots.
• Consider a permanent form of identification, such as a microchip (see AKC Reunite).
• Bring a recent picture of your dog along with you.

TRAVELING BY CAR

• Get your dog used to the car by letting him sit in it with you without leaving the driveway, and then going for short rides.
• Avoid car sickness by letting your dog travel on an empty stomach. However, make sure he has plenty of water at all times.
• Keep the car well-ventilated. If the dog is in a crate, make sure that fresh air can flow into the crate.
• Do not let your dog ride with his head sticking out of an open window. This can lead to eye injuries.
• Never let your dog ride in the back of an open truck. This is extremely dangerous and can lead to severe injuries or death.
• Stop frequently for exercise and potty breaks. Be sure to clean up after your dog.
• Car rides are boring for everyone, so instruct your children not to tease or annoy the dog in the car.
• Never, ever leave your dog unattended in a closed vehicle, particularly in the summer. See Summer Safety Tips for more information. If you must leave the car, designate a member of the family to stay with the dog.

LODGING

• Find out in advance which hotels or motels at your destination or on your route allow dogs. Many do not, or have size or breed restrictions.
• If your dog is allowed to stay at a hotel, respect other guests, staff and the property.
• Keep your dog as quiet as possible.
• Do not leave the dog unattended. Many dogs will bark or destroy property if left alone in a strange place.
• Ask the management where you should walk your dog, and pick up after him. Do not leave any mess behind.
• Remember that one bad experience with a dog guest may prompt the hotel management to refuse to allow any dogs. Be considerate of others and leave your room and the grounds in good condition.

Resource: http://www.akc.org/dog-owners/responsible-dog-ownership/travel-tips/

Once again the Ford Mustang is out in Front | North County Ford

Ford Mustang is officially American sports car to beat

After years of champing at the bit, Ford Motor’s Mustang is opening a huge lead in the race for the pony car market.

In the first five months of the year, drivers keen on an American sports car bought 56,571 Mustangs, a 55 percent increase from a year earlier. At the same time, Mustang’s closest competitor, Chevrolet’s Camaro, went into a skid; only 33,982 of the vehicles drove off the lot through May, a 13 percent decline.

It’s an astonishing gap in what has been a tightly contested market for 50 years. The past five years, Camaro has been on top. “I always think of it in political terms,” said Chevrolet spokesman Monte Doran. “There’s 40 percent of the market that would never think of leaving Camaro and 40 percent that will always buy a Mustang. But that 20 percent in the middle is the swing vote.”

The pony-car platform has long been simple and straightforward: lots of horsepower, loud paint, and cool design for relatively few dollars. A bare-bones Mustang posts 300 in horsepower and can be had for less than $24,000. It’s one equation that Detroit still engineers as well as or better than anyone else, along with pickup truck profits. But if the market were, indeed, an election, Ford is now winning in a landslide.

Part of its success comes down to timing. The Mustang sitting in dealerships now is a drastic redesign ordered up by the executive team to celebrate the model’s 50th anniversary. The slightly younger Camaro doesn’t hit 50 until next year (or 2017, depending on when one marks its start date).

“Some of this can be explained just by people waiting for next year’s Camaro,” said Bloomberg Intelligence analyst Kevin Tynan. “But a lot of it is also the new Mustang just being really good.”

Drive a “triple yellow” version of the 2015 Mustang through the streets of Manhattan and you get two looks: approving nods and get-over-yourself eye-rolls. What’s important: Everyone looks. Even in single yellow, the machine would demand attention. Most notably, the Mustang seems longer and leaner than prior iterations less hot rod, more Jaguar, less Lebron James 2012, more Lebron 2015, all sinewy and carb-free.

“When you do such a dramatic redesign, either it’s going to resonate really well or it’s not,” said Ford Marketing Manager Melanie Baker. “Honestly, we’re ecstatic with the sales numbers.”

The Mustang can still be had with a manual transmission and a big-block V-8 full of barbaric yawp. But Ford is also offering the car with a turbo four-cylinder. To Mustang purists this is like selling four beers in a six-pack, but the purists will keep buying. Plus, it’s a new, green world out there, full of high- performance hybrids and sake cocktails.

“We actually call it Ecoboost, because people have a negative association with four-cylinder,’” Baker explained.

Roughly one-third of Mustang buyers are opting for the small engine. Meanwhile, California has become the Mustang’s No. 1 market.

In the cockpit, Ford finally fixed a number of little irritants. The cup holders, for example, no longer crowd the gear selector. And it added something called line lock, which clamps the brakes to let a driver smoke the back tires at a stoplight. It’s a feature straight from the “you know what would be cool?” file, and it comes standard. Despite little cheap engineering tricks like that, or perhaps because of them, the Mustang is pulling a greater share of buyers away from more refined and expensive luxury brands, according to Baker. (Note to BMW: make a burnout button.)

Chevrolet, meanwhile, is biding its time. Last month, it unveiled an all-new Camaro that will be about 200 pounds lighter than its predecessors and also can be had with the model’s first turbo-charged engine, a four-cylinder unit.

GM’s Doran said the vehicle’s designers managed to make the car look both contemporary and classic, which is never as easy as it sounds. “You could strip all the badges off that car and put it on the moon, and it would still look like a Camaro,” he said.

The most muscle-bound Camaro model will also make 455 horsepower, 20 more than Ford’s meatiest pony.

The more anticipation builds, however, the more the current Camaro will lose its sheen. At current trajectories, the Dodge Challenger, last year a distant No. 3 in the pony car race, will overtake Chevy’s entry-level sports car in the next few months. Through May, Challenger sales in the U.S. increased by 38 percent to 30,166.

General Motors CEO Mary Barra said the new Camaro is designed to keep the pony-car crown, not compete for second place. “I think we will, and that is our goal,” she told Bloomberg.The car will start showing up in dealerships around the end of the year; for General Motors, it can’t come soon enough. In the meantime, Camaro fans will be able to find screaming deals on the 2015 models.

Resource: http://www.detroitnews.com/story/business/autos/ford/2015/06/09/ford-mustang-officially-american-sports-car-beat/28750027/

North County Ford - 450 West Vista Way, Vista

Finding honorable dealership helps in car buying process

Military memebers should research dealers before purchasing new, used cars

With so many auto dealers and so many young recruits with ready cash, car buying can be risky business in San Diego. That’s why experts emphasize that when researching a dealership, the buyer needs to focus on honesty and open communication. Finding a dealership that is established and knows the needs of the customer is key.

“Our military buyers have two main dream cars – the Ford F-150 and the redesigned Ford Mustang,” said Gerald Gonzalves, general sales manager of North County Ford. “Among military buyers, the Ford F-150 is a high seller because it’s rugged and the right size. But in the last few years, the Ford car segment has grown by leaps and bounds.”

The Ford Motor Company was founded by Henry Ford in 1903 and the first-ever moving assembly line was introduced in 1913. That revolutionary machinery prompted Forbes magazine to name Ford as “the most important industrial company in the history of the United States.” The company went public in 1956.

Ford has made significant contributions to alternative fuel models in the last decades. The Ford Escape Hybrid was introduced in 2004. By October 2014, Ford had produced more plug-in electric vehicles, including Ford Focus Electric/Hybrid.

Today’s promising models are the C-Max Energi plug-in hybrid and now the Ford Fusion Energi. Since the company has made a commitment to boost fuel efficiency and reduce carbon emissions; sales have doubled in the last six years.

North County Ford is a family-owned dealership that is part of a family of auto brands. The parent company is the Crowley Car Company, owned by Jim Crowley. North County Ford is located just off Highway 78 in Vista.

“We pride ourselves on how we do business,” said Gonzalves. “We are driven by excellent customer service, using a simple and convenient sales process for the consumer purchasing a car. Our used vehicles are Ford certified and fairly priced at market value or under.”

Gonzalves finds that military buyers appreciate his company because they share a similar outlook – know who you are and what you stand for. His customers are direct, honest, respectful and loyal.

“I say ‘loyal’ because the dealership serves the same customers over and over again throughout the decades. These folks are passionate about their cars and passionate about the Ford brand,” he said. “They know North County Ford and the North County Ford employees will take care of their needs.”

North County Ford is into building relationships with honesty, transparency and integrity. They offer military programs that give rebates to service men and women up to $1,000 on select models. Most others offer $500.

“As the closest dealership to Camp Pendleton, which has more than 70,000 daytime residents, we appreciate what the military does for our country and we want to give them peace of mind. Military buyers can count on us and know they are in good hands in either purchasing a vehicle or servicing one. We take our customers seriously,” said Gonzalves, “because we want our customers for five, 10, 15 years. We want them for generations to come.” 

North County Ford 
Phone: (760) 945-9900
Address: 450 West Vista Way, Vista
Online: northcountyford.com 

The 2017 Ford F-150 Raptor is Still Menacing, Wonderfully Ridiculous | North County Ford Vista CA

It may be all Ecoboost and 10-speed automatic underneath, but the 2017 Ford F-150 Raptor strikes that balance of aggressive and goofy characteristics that made the outgoing model such a hit.

Oh yeah, and the off-road credentials were pretty good, too.

Unsurprisingly, like the 2015 F-150, the new Raptor is a case of same-but-different on the outside. The FORD letters on the grille are still enormous, an endearing characteristic. They've also been added to the tailgate in lieu of a blue oval. The whole look is perhaps more modern and sophisticated, but in person the Raptor still comes off as a tough thing.

Ford didn't let us pop the hood to see the 3.5-liter Ecoboost V6 that's supposed to be in there. Nor did they let us get too close to the interior, which at least doesn't stray too far from the new F-150's style. The paddle shifters inside were the first thing I noticed, though. And I'm still not convinced they look right in a truck, especially when they bear a similar appearance to the ones in the new Ford GT.

The thing about the Raptor has always been that it's a ridiculous vehicle. It's ridiculously large, ridiculously powerful for its size, ridiculously capable. But at the end of the day, the main attraction to this thing is its looks and sounds. They just make you smile.

This new one may be smarter under the skin, but it looks like it still has a sense of humor on the outside.

5 Spring Maintenance Tips for Your Car | North County Ford Vista CA

Here are Five Spring Car Maintenance Tips to Keep in Mind

1. Remove leftover salt

Salt, used on roads to melt ice and snow, can cause serious damage to cars, especially their undercarriages where metal can rust. Take your car to a highly rated car wash to eliminate salt, and check that the business has sprayers that clean the undercarriage.

2. Check alignment and suspension
Driving over potholes can damage your car’s alignment and suspension. You might have a problem if you notice that the car pulls to one side or the steering wheel vibrates as you drive. An alignment check typically costs $25 to $40.

3. Change oil and check fluids

“If your last oil change was before winter, then this is a great time to do it, spring is also an ideal time to flush your transmission fluid. It’s one of the most neglected services. Mechanics say spring is a good time to check your car's fluid levels. Waiting too long to change your fluids can lead to a costly repair. Mechanics recommend changing your car’s oil every 3,000 to 5,000 miles.Don’t forget to check window washing fluid levels, as well as your brake and cooling system fluids.

4. Rotate tires and check air pressure
You should check the tire pressure, including the spare should you ever need it. Your car’s tires affect the ride, handling, traction and safety.Mechanics recommend tire rotation every 5,000 miles to keep tread wear even.One of the biggest issues we see is the front tires wearing out prematurely.

5. Inspect brakes
Nothing, perhaps, is more important than having brakes that function properly. Have a technician check the pads and rotors to ensure there are no safety issues. Neglecting them can lead to a costlier repair down the line.

Ford Brings Repreve to the 2015 F-150 | North County Ford Vista CA

Recycled Materials in 2015 F-150 Seats

What if we could redirect plastics from landfill and use them to create innovative materials, and then put them in the all-new Ford F-150, part of Ford F-Series, America’s best-selling truck?​ We could make a big difference.

Since 2012, Ford Motor Company has worked with Unifi to bring environmentally responsible, high-performance repreve fiber to many Ford vehicles. Now, this innovative fiber is available in the in the all-new F-150. By substituting with this recycled material, Ford will divert more than five million plastic bottles from landfills this year. 

Ford is the only automaker to use repreve, made from 100 percent recycled materials including plastic bottles, in its vehicles. Ford is currently using repreve in five vehicles around the world, making it a truly global material, and it represents Ford's larger commitment to reduce, reuse and recycle as part of the company’s global sustainability strategy to lessen its environmental footprint.

“By using repreve in the all-new Ford F-150, we are reconfirming our commitment to using renewable and recyclable materials in our vehicles,” said Carol Kordich, lead designer, global sustainability materials strategy development. “We are always looking for ways to incorporate more innovative and sustainable materials into our vehicles.”

Ford Shelby Mustangs engineered for street and track | North County Ford Vista CA

2015 Ford Shelby GT350, GT350R go on sale this fall. Michigan plant running prototypes down the line now.

Developing the new Ford Mustang was tricky enough, but engineers knew it had to be capable of spawning extreme performance Shelby versions as well.

It wasn't easy, said Dave Pericak, Ford Performance director. It became clear there would still be some additional investment needed down the road to pull off performance versions that can tear up a track.

Ford unveiled the Shelby GT350 Mustang at the 2014 Los Angeles auto show last November. In January, at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit, the automaker showed the Shelby GT350R which is a stripped down, lightweight, street legal, track version. They go on sale this fall.

Ford's performance team is confident the two new cars are deserving of the Shelby name while still engineered so they could roll off the same assembly line in Flat Rock, Mich., as the conventional Mustang. A limited amount of special tooling was needed, even though the Shelby Mustangs have a different look, starting with the face, and changes to the chassis, suspension and brakes to handle the speeds and demands of a track car.

Ford has started building early prototypes in Flat Rock. The Shelby Mustangs "stick out like a sore thumb on the production line," said Adam Wirth, suspension, wheel and tire supervisor. And assembly is interesting, especially the GT350R that can be ordered so stripped down it does not even have air conditioning or a radio.

Everything is on track to start taking dealer orders in about a month for delivery this fall, Pericak said.

Pricing will be announced soon for a car that will compete against everything from a Chevrolet Camaro Z28 to Porsche 911 and Nissan GT-R.

All dealers are eligible to sell the Shelby Mustangs but there are not a lot to go around. Ford will only build 100 Shelby GT350s and 37 GT350Rs for the 2015 model year which is the 50th anniversary of the original Shelby GT350 that jump-started the pony car wars of the 1960s.

For the 2016 model year, volume is expected to be in the 4,000-6,000 range, said Jim Owens, Shelby marketing manager.

So why build such a niche vehicle?

"Ford Performance is a money-making business," said Eric Zinkosky, suspension and vehicle dynamics technical specialist. These exclusive vehicles are scooped up by discriminating buyers.

The 2015 Shelby GT350 has a naturally aspirated 5.2-liter V8 with a flat-plane crankshaft which gives it a different firing order for more high-revving power and powerful exhaust sounds. It puts out more than 500 horsepower and more than 400 lb.-ft. of torque. It has a six-speed manual transmission.

It even has unique tires of a special compound developed by Michelin.

"You don't have to be on a track to enjoy this car," said Wirth.

Some owners might never take their GT350 on the track — but they know they could, said Owens. Others might never take their GT350R on the road or even get a license plate, preferring to trailer the car to the track.

Key to making it a stiff performance car on the track but still comfortable on the street is Ford's first use of MagneRide suspension dampers that adapt to the road under it. It can even handle driving over a curb, said Brent Clark, vehicle dynamics supervisor.

General Motors has used the MagneRide damping system extensively for the Chevrolet Corvette and the Cadillac brand. Ford developed its own continuously variable damping system for its Lincoln brand but for the Mustang, Ford needed a system that reacted even faster to drive conditions.

The Shelby duo have the most powerful brakes on a Mustang to date. "It's the real secret to making this car fast," said Zinkosky, knowing they will control the speed heading into a corner.

Ford has said it will introduce 12 new performance vehicles by 2020. Among them are the Ford GT due in the second half of 2016 — Ford will make 250 a year — as well as the Mustangs, Focus ST, Focus RS, Fiesta ST and F-150 Raptor.