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It's not unusual to miss your scheduled oil change once in a while. After all, we're all so busy with work, errands, family, and all the other distractions of modern life. But if you glance up at the sticker on your windshield and realize you're overdue, you really shouldn't put off your Ford oil change for much longer. That's when serious engine trouble can rapidly develop. How Long Has It Been Since Your Last Ford Oil Change? Change Your Oil Every 7,500 Miles Under ordinary driving conditions, a modern Ford should have its oil changed every 7,500 miles. This is the case for Ford models released since 2008. If your Ford is older than this, the recommended interval is every 5,000 miles. If you've driven too many miles since your last oil change, it's time to visit your local technician. Extreme Driving Conditions There are circumstances where your engine and oil are put under far more pressure than usual. As a result, you need to have your oil changed more frequently. These conditions include extremely hot or cold climates, heavy stop-and-go traffic, driving with extra weight such as towed trailers, and regular short trips where your engine doesn't reach its full operating temperature. Avoid Reduced Performance The engine of your Ford is a sophisticated, meticulous machine with many moving parts. Oil is what keeps all those parts moving against each other smoothly. Oil provides essential lubrication, helps keep your engine clean, and prevents overheating. If you neglect to change your oil for too long, you'll begin to experience the following problems. Buildup of Friction With so much pressure and usage, engine oil always begins to thicken. If left unchanged, it becomes a sludge-like substance that can no longer lubricate properly. The resulting friction rapidly leads to parts breaking down. Buildup of Contaminants Engine oil contains detergents and dispersants which collect dirt and debris throughout the engine and take it all to the fuel filter. The filter is then removed and replaced during each oil change. Unless this happens often, the collected contaminants are forced back into the oil, which gradually becomes a thick, mirky sludge. Buildup of Heat The worst engine damage is caused by overheating. Smooth, clean engine oil draws heat from the engine. If you allow your oil to become dirty and thickened, it no longer serves this function and your engine will begin to overheat. At this point you face the risk of all kinds of major problems, such as a blown gasket or the entire engine seizing up. Keep Your Warranty Valid Another reason to stick to your oil change schedule is the vehicle warranty. Always check the specified frequency required by your Ford model's warranty, and stick to it. Ford drivers very rarely need to call upon their warranties for repairs or replacements, but it's always better to be safe than sorry. Head down to Lundgren Ford for an oil change today. We're a fourth-generation, family-owned dealership in Eveleth, Minnesota, and we've been looking after the region's Ford drivers since 1929. image via ford.com

If you don't know what to watch out for, it can be hard to know which mechanic is the best for your car. Generally, it's always good to choose a Ford mechanic who has been factory-trained and knows this type of vehicle inside and out. In Eveleth, MN, it's easy to find such a professional because there is a high-quality service center at your Ford dealer. 3 Tips for Finding a Quality Ford Mechanic in Eveleth, MN 1. Speak to Your Local Ford Dealer It isn't very challenging to find a great mechanic in your local area because there are professional technicians at your local dealership. If you've never had your car serviced, get in touch with the dealer and speak to them about your concerns and requirements. They can explain to you what kinds of repairs are offered at the service center and where their mechanics have trained. It might be worth stopping by the dealership in person and having a look. When you arrive, you can see the center where your vehicle will be serviced and fixed, and you can speak to the mechanics directly. They'll not only reassure you that your car will be well taken care of, but they can also give you some important tips about how often you should have it checked by a professional and how to maintain it in between appointments. 2. Check What Spare Parts they Use Before signing up to use a mechanic's services, double-check what spare parts they use. If you find out that they use aftermarket or salvaged items, it's better to choose someone different. This is because such parts and accessories could damage your vehicle, since they weren't constructed specifically for your Ford model. What's more, you'll risk voiding your warranty, since the manufacturers won't be able to guarantee your car's functionality anymore. 3. Make Sure Communication Is Good A final key consideration before deciding to use a certain mechanic is the quality of communication. Find someone who will be happy to give you an honest and upfront quote about your repairs and who will tell you how long they might take. If you opt for service at our dealership, you'll know that we're only a phone call, email, or live chat message away and that we're open from 8am to 5pm on Mondays through Fridays. That way, you'll be able to reach us and speak to a representative no matter when your issue occurs. Finding a high-quality mechanic is key because it helps you to keep your car safe and in good condition for future resale. The best technicians are always the ones who have been trained to deal with Ford cars and who will use genuine spare parts. Call or message us today at Lundgren Ford to find out more and book your first appointment.