Why the 2024 Ford Escape is the Perfect Family SUV
When it comes to transporting your family, you want comfort, safety, technology, and space, and the 2024 Ford Escape delivers.
Comfort and Convenience
One of the first considerations when choosing a compact SUV for your family is comfort. After all, if your family will be spending hours in the vehicle, you want everyone to be comfortable. The Ford Escape seats up to 5, and it offers comfort for the driver and every passenger. The front seats have dual-zone electronic temperature controls, so the driver and front passenger can customize the climate to their liking.
Both front and back seats have armrests, and 8 cupholders ensure everyone has a place to put their drink. The leather-wrapped steering wheel gives a touch of luxury not often found in a base model SUV. The Escape comes with Intelligent Access with push-button start for the ultimate in driver convenience.
Safety and Driver-Assistance
Even more important than comfort is safety, and the Escape comes with many safety and driver-assistance features. For example, it comes equipped with AdvanceTrac with Roll Stability Control to help keep your vehicle stable and upfront even on sharp turns. The rearview camera helps make parking and driving in reverse easier and safer. It also comes with Ford Co-Pilot360, which includes important driver-assistance features such as:
- Lane-keeping assist
- Lane-keeping alert
- Driver alert
- Blind spot information system
- Forward collision warning
- Pedestrian detection
- Pre-collision assist with automatic emergency braking
In the event of an accident, the Safety Canopy System and SOS Post-Crash Alert System help keep you and your passengers safe.
Technology and Connectivity
The Escape comes with the SYNC 4 infotainment system. It offers Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, giving you access to many of your smartphone’s capabilities directly from the Escape’s 8-inch LCD capacitive touchscreen or using voice recognition. With the ability to connect up to 10 devices, the FordPass Connect with 4G LTE Wi-Fi Hotspot ensures you always stay connected on your family’s road trips.
Style and Beauty
With its piano black grille, body-color rear spoiler, dual chrome exhaust tips, black mirrors, and 17″ shadow silver wheels, the Escape has a fun, sporty look that appeals to the whole family. An available panoramic roof and black roof rack can enhance the fun appearance even more if you choose.
Cargo Space
The Escape has a spacious cargo area behind the second row. For even more cargo room, the second row has a 60/40-split fold-down option. With both rear seats folded down, you have 65.4 cubic feet of cargo space. You can also slide the second row back for more legroom or additional storage space.
Are you ready to enjoy the comfort, technology, beauty, and space of the Escape? Come to Banister Ford of Marlow Heights in Suitland, MD to drive one yourself!
If your business takes you out on the road, you’ll need a commercial vehicle you can count on. The 2024 Ford Transit-250 is reliable, durable, and capable of working just as hard as you do. Available in a variety of lengths and roof heights, the Ford Transit line is also customizable. Whether you’re a courier, a contractor, or a flower shop owner, this commercial vehicle can meet every need.
Two Engines To Choose From
This commercial van can be configured with either a 3.5-liter V-6 engine or an EcoBoost turbocharged 3.5-liter V-6 engine. Both engines pair with a 10-speed automatic transmission. An available Intelligent All-Wheel-Drive system maximizes the van’s traction and is integrated into the vehicle’s design without raising the load floor or seat height, making it easy for drivers to hop in and out.
Features That Support Busy Drivers
Ford Transit vans have features that save busy commercial drivers time. A sliding passenger door makes it easy to get in and out, accessing the rear cargo space with ease. An optional extended-range fuel tank, which can accommodate 31 gallons of fuel, makes it possible to go further on a single tank of gas.
Available Enhanced Active Park Assist means you can easily nail parallel parking, even in tight spaces. Being able to quickly and easily move in and out of spaces builds efficiency into your day. A backup alarm is also available.
Customizable Interior
Ford Transit has several different interior options, each of which can be customized. One option is the cargo van, which features front seats and a rear cargo bay that can be outfitted with optional shelving and tie-down hooks. Two different passenger van configurations allow you to accommodate as many as 15 seats. A variety of optional packages, including a parcel delivery package and an ambulance prep package, can help you set up the van for its intended use.
This vehicle’s maximum payload, or the total amount of weight it can safely carry, is anywhere from 3,251 to 4,069 pounds, depending on which configuration you’re driving.
Amenities That Ensure Comfort
The Ford Transit is a vehicle you and your drivers will enjoy driving thanks to numerous comfort-focused amenities, including air conditioning, Bluetooth, dual USB ports, and a center console that’s the perfect place to organize paperwork and other belongings. Grab handles make it easy to get into and out of the vehicle.
Having the right commercial vehicle builds efficiency each day and keeps you and your drivers happy, and a customizable Ford Transit van is the perfect solution. When you’re ready to purchase your next commercial vehicle, come see us at Banister Ford of Marlow Heights in Suitland, MD.
How Often Should Your Ford Get an Oil Change?
One of the most important things you can do to maintain your vehicle is to perform regular oil changes at the Ford dealership. Understanding when and why to change your oil can save you from expensive repairs and keep your Ford cruising smoothly for years to come.
When Should You Change Your Oil?
Due to advancements in engine technology and oil quality, the recommended interval between oil services has changed. Modern Fords can typically go between 5,000 and 7,500 miles before they need fresh oil.
However, the exact frequency with which to change your oil varies based on your vehicle’s model, the conditions in which you drive, and how you use your vehicle. For instance, if you frequently tow heavy loads or drive in extreme temperatures, you may need to get fresh oil more often. Always check your Ford’s owner’s manual for the manufacturer’s recommendations.
The Importance of Oil in Your Ford
Engine oil is critical for your Ford. It lubricates the engine’s moving parts, reduces friction, and helps keep the engine cool. Over time, the oil in your car breaks down. It collects dirt and debris from the engine, losing its effectiveness. If not changed, dirty oil can lead to increased wear and tear, reduced fuel efficiency, and severe engine damage.
Signs It’s Time for an Oil Change at the Ford Dealership
You’ve Exceeded the Mileage Recommendations
Regardless of how long it’s been, if you’ve driven more than the recommended number of miles since your last change, it’s time to schedule a service appointment.
Dark and Dirty Oil
Check your oil regularly using your dipstick. Clean oil should be an amber color, clear enough to let light pass through. As it collects particles from the engine, it darkens. If you check your oil and notice it has become dark and gritty, you need to change it.
Too Much Engine Noise
A well-lubricated engine should run quietly. Oil provides a protective layer between the parts of your engine, reducing metal-on-metal contact and keeping things from rubbing together. If your oil isn’t doing its job, you may hear more noise from your engine or even the dreaded knocking sound.
Oil or Check Engine Light Appears
Your Ford is equipped with sensors that monitor the quality and level of your engine oil. If the oil light illuminates on your dashboard, it’s time for a change. If the check engine light comes on instead, you should still check your oil. It could also be a sign of a more serious issue, so you should have it diagnosed by a professional.
Regularly changing the oil in your Ford is a simple but effective way to protect it from damage. Call Banister Ford of Marlow Heights in Suitland-Silver Hills, MD, today to schedule your next oil service.
Don’t let the lovable retro-styling of the 2024 Ford Bronco Sport fool you—this SUV is an off-road beast. Read below to find out how the Bronco Sport is built tough for outdoor adventurers.
4×4 Off-Roading Capability
The Bronco Sport comes with standard all-wheel drive and a 4×4 drivetrain that disperses power to minimize slippage. On the available Badlands edition, the twin-clutch rear-drive unit can divert torque to a single rear wheel even when the other wheels have no traction.
When the trail gets hairy, the Bronco Sport tackles it with 7.8 inches to an available 8.8 inches of ground clearance. With aggressive approach, breakover, and departure angles, this SUV is ready to handle any surface condition. Yes, it can even ford standing water up to 23.6 inches high.
Terrain Management System With G.O.A.T Modes
To supplement its off-roading power, the Bronco Sport is equipped with multiple G.O.A.T. (Go Over Any Terrain) modes: normal, eco, sand, slippery, and sport. The available Badlands edition offers two extra modes: mud/ruts and rock crawl. Lastly, the available Trail Toolbox adds even more technologies to help you conquer the wilderness.
Customizable for Any Outing
Customize the Bronco Sport to make it your own. Start by choosing between trim levels that match your lifestyle: Big Bend, Free Wheeling, Heritage, Outer Banks, and Badlands. Next, fit accessories to match your activities, whether that’s biking, skiing, kayaking, or camping. These available kits include:
- Rubberized flooring for easy hose-downs
- Adjustable lift-gate
- Racks and crossbars
- Camping accessories
- Cargo management system
- Wheel options and all-terrain tires
Top-Tier Navigation
The Bronco Sport’s available voice-activated navigation system helps you figure out where you’re going with hands-free operation. When you’re on the move, the available 180-degree camera uses sensors in your grille and rear to produce a panoramic field of view on your dash. At the press of a button, you can activate split-view, which will increase visibility and help you judge distances.
Versatile Cargo Space
A safari-style roof means room for stowing on top and extra height for gear inside. With an available interior bike rack, it’s big enough to fit two mountain bikes standing up. The cargo area is flexible as well. Expand it by folding the second-row seats flat to reach 60-65 cubic feet of space, depending on your model. Still need more storage? Open the hidden compartment under the second-row passenger seats to stash tools or snacks.
The Ford Bronco Sport is strong enough to take you into unexplored backcountry woods but is also plenty of fun for a night downtown. Contact us today at Banister Ford of Marlow Heights in Suitland, MD to embark on your next adventure.
7 Impressive Features of the 2024 Ford F-250
The 2024 Ford F-250 is a Super Duty model built to withstand all of your endeavors. From its powerful engine to modern tech options, this vehicle has everything you need for the perfect ride. Visit your local Ford dealer or read on to learn about the best features of the 2024 Super Duty F-250.
7.3L OHV PFI V8 Engine
The V8 engine in the new F-250 is built for maximum endurance, with a cast-iron block and forged steel crankshaft. This engine is the strongest in its class, offering low-end torque with variable cam-timing and high-output power.
FordPass Connect with 5G WiFi
Losing your WiFi connection on a lengthy road trip sounds scary, but thanks to FordPass Connect you won’t have to worry about that in your new Ford F-250! When riding in this 2024 Super Duty, you can connect up to 10 devices to the 5G in-vehicle WiFi hotspot powered by AT&T.
Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking
Safety is the biggest priority when on the road and having an extra set of eyes never hurts. The 2024 F-250 includes Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking and Forward Collision Warning.
This feature scans your surroundings and alerts you to possible collisions in your path. If you don’t hit the brakes, they automatically activate to prevent impact.
Ford Telematics
Ford Telematics is an online platform that connects your truck to your smartphone. Through the web-based app, you can monitor important vehicle maintenance information and track your location.
The Telematics option is especially useful to those managing a fleet of employees, as it can connect with multiple vehicles. This allows you to access GPS information and other insights about your team’s trucks.
Trailer Sway Control and Hill Start Assist
Don’t let winding roads and steep hills intimidate you! With the help of Trailer Sway Control and Hill Start Assist, your Ford F-250 has a helping hand with control. These features keep your wheels in line and your vehicle stable, no matter how the route looks.
SOS Post-Crash Alert System
SOS Post-Crash Alert is an important safety feature that’s become standard on all new Ford models. If you have a severe impact that deploys the airbags, the Post-Crash Alert turns on the hazard lights, sounds the horn, and unlocks the doors. This helps draw attention to your vehicle in the event of a serious accident.
If the new F-250 model sounds like the Super Duty truck for you, visit Banister Ford of Marlow Heights in Suitland, MD, today! We have a large inventory of 2024 Ford models ready for you to drive off the lot. Contact us at 301-265-5710 to learn more.
At a Glance: The 2024 Ford Expedition
Planning family trips, golf getaways, and outdoor excursions is a lot easier when there’s a 2024 Ford Expedition parked in your driveway. With three rows of seating, impressive towing capacity, and plenty of amenities, the Expedition can comfortably transport every member of your party and all of the gear you need. Get to know the Ford Expedition, available at your local Ford dealership.
Enough Engine Power for All of Your Adventures
The Expedition runs on a standard twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V-6 engine. Paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, this engine offers 380 horsepower on most models. A 3.5-liter EcoBoost High Output V-6 engine is on the Timberline and comes as part of the Limited Stealth Performance packages. This SUV can be had with either rear- or all-wheel drive.
Room for Everyone and Everything
The Expedition’s three rows of seating can accommodate eight passengers, and a spacious cabin ensures that even when every seat is taken, there’s still plenty of legroom. Bench seating is standard for the second row, although captain’s seats are available. Both the second and third rows of seating can be folded flat if you want to use this vehicle’s massive interior for cargo instead of passengers.
Depending on which trim level you’re driving, the Expedition offers anywhere from 19.3 to 20.9 cubic feet of cargo space in the rear. If both rows of rear seats are down, you have 104.6 cubic feet of space to work with. And that’s not all. Depending on which configuration you’re driving, the Expedition offers a towing capacity of anywhere from 9,000 to 9,300 pounds. That’s enough to tow a camper, a boat, or a trailer.
Built for Comfort
The interior of the Expedition is built for comfort. Either cloth or leather seats are available in a range of color options. Available interior zone lighting can be controlled by either an app or the onboard infotainment system. Tri-zone temperature control, a 22-speaker Bang & Olufsen stereo, and a panoramic vista roof are all available.
Modern Tech Features Keep You Connected
The Expedition is equipped with a standard 12-inch touchscreen that hosts SYNC 4, which is Ford’s in-car communication and infotainment system. Wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and six Smart Charging USB Ports all come standard. A subscription-based Wi-Fi hotspot is available, as is a dual-headrest entertainment system with built-in Amazon Fire TV for the rear seat.
Could you use a little extra space on the road? The Ford Expedition has plenty of capacity and can handle anything you throw its way, from running errands around town to family road trips. When you’re ready to test drive the Expedition, come see us at Banister Ford of Marlow Heights in Suitland, MD.
Getting New Tires for Your Ford
Tire problems will inevitably develop over time as your tires are subject to constant wear and tear as you drive, and they’re also affected by heat, cold, mud, and water. As your Ford dealer, we’d like you to know a few of the signs that you need to visit us for new tires.
Sidewall Cracks
The sidewall is the part of a tire that’s perpendicular to the road surface. This section of a tire doesn’t have steel or polymer reinforcement like the tread, and it’s made from softer rubber to provide more flexibility. Rubber will degrade over time, especially since it is subject to water, mud, and sunlight. The ice and snow of a Maryland winter can also cause damage to the rubber.
Older tires lose much of their flexibility, and the sidewalls can develop cracks. As you drive, your tires heat up and this can cause the cracks to widen and deepen. Deeper cracks can lead to a puncture or a blowout. If you spot cracks in your sidewalls, visit us and our expert technicians will advise you on their potential future life. We can also replace one or more of your tires if necessary.
Overinflated Tires
Many drivers worry about underinflated tires, but overinflated tires also create problems. When you’re driving, tire contact with the surface generates friction. This friction heats the air in the air in the tires, increasing the pressure inside them and causing them to expand slightly. If your tires have too much air, the tire rubber is stretched thinner than it should be.
The additional air in the tires makes them more prone to a blowout, and this is exceptionally dangerous if you’re driving at speed on the highway. The stretched rubber also means they suffer additional friction damage when you are driving. Our technicians will examine your tires and correct the inflation.
Visible Wear Indicators
Tread wear indicator bars are built into your tires. They appear as thin lines that run perpendicular to the tread. When your tires are new, they’re barely visible. As the tires wear down, these bars become more noticeable. They’re designed as a warning that your tires are wearing down. The more visible the indicator bars, the more worn your tires are.
You can test the depth of your tread at home using a Lincoln penny. Put the penny upside down into the deepest part of the tire tread. If you can see the top of Lincoln’s head, your tread is less than 2/32″ thick. A tread this low makes driving dangerous. We’ll examine your tires and replace them if necessary.
If your tires look worn, visit our service department today at Banister Ford of Marlow, and we’ll check them for you.
Does Your Ford Need a New Car Battery?
The car battery is a component that’s easy to forget about. When it’s working well, you never even notice it. Over time, of course, and like any other car part, batteries wear out, though, so here are a few signs you need a new car battery for your Ford dealership.
You Notice Unusual Power Fluctuations
Unlike the more obvious signs, like slow cranking, unusual power fluctuations can be subtler. If you notice that your vehicle’s electrical systems seem to perform inconsistently, such as the radio volume fluctuating or electric windows moving more slowly than usual, it could be a sign that your battery is struggling to maintain a consistent voltage.
There Are Some Odd Smells
A damaged or overcharging battery can sometimes emit a pungent, sulfuric smell like rotten eggs. If you notice this odor, pop the hood and see if you can detect it near your Ford’s battery. It’s a sign that the battery is leaking acid, which is not only harmful to your vehicle but also poses safety risks.
There Are Changes in the Battery Fluid Level
Some car batteries have a part of the casing that’s translucent enough to check the fluid level. If the fluid level is below the lead plates inside, it’s time to test the battery and charging system. A lot of batteries don’t allow you to check the fluid levels like this, though, so be sure to take the battery to your Ford dealer if you’re having issues and suspect a problem.
The Battery Is Getting Old
While this isn’t a sign per se, understanding the typical lifespan of a car battery can help you anticipate when a replacement might be necessary and start budgeting accordingly. You can usually count on three to five years. If you take lots of short hops and expose your car to extreme weather, count on a shorter lifespan.
The Engine Starts Only When Jumped
If your Ford’s engine starts only after a jump, and this becomes a recurring theme, the battery is failing. This constant jumpstarting is not a sustainable solution. If you’ve tried charging your battery by driving it around, but it takes longer than usual or doesn’t hold the charge, this indicates a problem. It’s worth testing both the battery and the charging system to pinpoint the issue.
Regular battery maintenance and timely replacement are key to ensuring the longevity and reliability of your Ford. Whether you need maintenance or you’re starting to notice issues, come see us at Banister Ford of Marlow Heights for professional help with all things Ford.
Exploring off-road trails as easily as it does city streets, the 2024 Ford Edge is an SUV that provides both versatile and sporty performance alongside interior luxuries. Now here at your local Ford dealer, this versatile SUV also offers exceptional fuel economy and a wide array of cutting-edge tech features that can help make even the longest journeys enjoyable for everyone.
Fuel-Efficient Performance
The 2024 edition of the Edge has two powerful engines available: a turbocharged 250-horsepower four-cylinder and a V6 that produces 335 horses. The smaller engine gets up to 28 MPG, perfect for long-distance road trips with fewer stops, while the V6 still provides an impressive 25 MPG in estimated highway mileage.
When taking your adventures off-road, the Intelligent AWD system available for this SUV automatically optimizes the vehicle for rough or slippery terrains whenever they’re detected. If you need to bring a trailer with you, whether it’s across town or cross-country, you have a 3,500-pound maximum capacity to work with, making towing a breeze.
Luxuries Meet Technology
The vehicle’s cabin offers a wide array of luxury and comfort features, including dual-zone climate control and reclining front-row seats that can be both ventilated and heated, as well as leather, ActiveX, and other fabrics for both rows of seating. The second row also offers both a 60/40 split-folding seat and EasyFold seats, leaving plenty of space when either option is folded down, with up to 73.4 cubic feet available for cargo.
As for technology, you’ll find plenty throughout the cabin, like SYNC 4A, a multifunction infotainment system that you can use for listening to music, getting directions, adjusting in-cabin preference settings, and making voice-controlled calls. Those who prefer to use their personal devices for entertainment while on road trips will certainly appreciate the mobile 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot, and music lovers have 12 speakers of high-clarity audio to enjoy with the premium B&O sound system.
Smart Driver Assistance
A suite of advanced driver-assist features is offered as well, including Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking, Lane-Keeping System, and BLIS (Blind Spot Information System), which can help you avoid front-end collisions, keep you centered in your lane, and ensure you’re always aware of nearby vehicles before making lane changes.
While using your high beams at night, you won’t have to worry about lowering them when other vehicles approach, as the Auto High-Beam Headlamps can automatically adjust themselves. Even parking is made simpler, with features like the Rear View Camera and Enhanced Active Park Assist System, the latter of which can help you maneuver into tight parking spaces, even if it requires parallel and perpendicular movements.
With adventure-ready performance, premium comfort amenities, and the latest technology, the 2024 Edge is one SUV that’s in a league of its own. Come see its many other distinguishing features by contacting us today at Banister Ford of Marlow Heights.
It’s among the last pieces of business you take care of when purchasing a vehicle, but it’s one of the most important. Financing your vehicle allows you to pay the purchase price in monthly installments, spreading out the cost. Arranging car financing is a financially savvy move, and smart consumers work through their local Ford dealer on this process. There are several advantages associated with dealer financing.
1. You’ll Get Financial Flexibility
Financing your vehicle frees you from paying for it in full upfront, which means you’ll keep more money in your checking account. That ensures you have funds on hand to cover things like vehicle maintenance and car insurance. By keeping cash on hand, you’ll also be well-positioned to cover any unplanned emergencies.
If you make payments on the vehicle for a while and eventually decide you want to pay off the remainder of your balance all at once, eliminating the monthly payments, you can do that. Financing through your dealership gives you plenty of flexibility to pay for your vehicle in the way that’s most convenient for you and your monthly budget.
2. You May Get a Terrific Rate
Our finance department works with a network of lenders to get each customer the best possible rate. If you finance through our dealership, you may also be able to take advantage of special low-interest financing offers through the manufacturer. Either way, financing through our dealership means you’ll be offered a competitive rate and a favorable financing agreement.
3. You May Be Able to Get a Longer Term
Stretching your repayment period out over a longer period of time can result in lower monthly payments, which many consumers like because it’s a more budget-friendly approach. Financing through our dealership increases the likelihood that you’ll be able to finance your vehicle over a longer term.
4. You’ll Save Time
Financing through our dealership is the most convenient option. You’ll be able to pick out your next vehicle, negotiate a terrific price, arrange financing, and drive your vehicle home, all within a few hours. Everything can be completed onsite, and you’ll have the experts on our finance team by your side throughout the process.
5. You’ll Get Help Working Around Poor Credit
Not everyone has a sterling credit record, and we understand that. If you’ve been turned down before, we have programs that can get you into car ownership while rebuilding your credit. Our finance team is able to overcome most credit problems, and they’ll help you navigate the process of securing credit.
Don’t let concerns about the financing process keep you from getting behind the wheel of your dream vehicle. When you’re ready to purchase your next vehicle, head to Banister Ford of Marlow Heights.
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