While many truck and SUV owners are trading in their vehicles for smaller, more fuel efficient transportation, true truck owners, those who need to buy pickups for towing and hauling, need the practicality of a truck, and do not have the option of trading in.  At the same time, like everyone else, they would like to use less fuel.  While some truck manufacturers have turned to diesel engines for their light duty pickups, Ford has gone in a different direction.  Instead of diesel, the company is developing a V-6 EcoBoost engine for the F-150 which employs turbocharging and direct-injection -- a design that Ford says will deliver similar power to a V-8 engine -- all while using less gas.  The benefits of the EcoBoost include a cheaper cost to manufacture compared to diesels and less than $1000 more costly than a conventional V-8.  A diesel may cost as much as $5000 more to produce than conventional trucks.   So for an extra $1000 truck owners will get more power, and 15-20 percent better mileage, Ford engineers predict. The EcoBoost is expected to get 16 mpg city/23 highway, compared with 13 and 18 for the V-8 today.  One issue with the EcoBoost engine is the extra noise it produces, but this will likely be resolved before production.   EcoBoost-powered F-150s will arrive in showrooms in 2010 for the 2011 model year.

        

Check out these New Car specials at Ken Garff Ford:

Brand New 2008 F150 Super Crew 4Door
Stock # 1F8236
MSRP: $32,195
- FORD RETAIL CUSTOMER CASH $3500
- FMCC BONUS CASH $1000
- ford old age bonus cash $3000
- DOWN PAYMENT $2000
- DOWN PAYMENT MATCH $2000
Your Bottom Line: $20,695

Brand New Ford Focus SE
Stock # 1F8705
MSRP: $18,425
- FORD RETAIL CUSTOMER CASH $1500
- FMCC BONUS CASH $500
- MILITARY/COLLEGE REBATE $500
- DOWN PAYMENT $1500
- DOWN PAYMENT MATCH $1500
Your Bottom Line: $12,925

Brand New Ford Edge
MSRP: $27,075
- RETAIL CUSTOMER CASH $2750
- FORD COMPETITIVE OWNER CASH $1000
- DOWN PAYMENT $1500
- DOWN PAYMENT MATCH $1500
Your Bottom Line: $20,225

Brand New Ford Escape
XLT 4WD
MSRP: $26,545
- RETAIL CUSTOMER CASH $3000
- FORD BONUS CASH $750
- MILITARY/COLLEGE $500
- DOWN PAYMENT $1500
- DOWN PAYMENT MATCH $1500
Your Bottom Line: $19,795

Brand New Ford F250 Crewcab Superduty
MSRP: $40,175
- FORD RETAIL CUSTOMER CASH $5500
FMCC-  BONUS CASH $1000
Your Bottom Line: $29,752

        

Anyone driving a recent model vehicle around is driving with the added braking protection of anti lock brakes, or ABS.  Many have heard this term, but what is this technology all about?  To start off with, it is important to know that the four-wheel ABS system can help to slightly reduce the braking distance in some situations. However, under certain conditions (e.g. on loose snow or gravel), the braking distance may be longer; the main purpose of ABS is to help the driver maintain steering control during hard braking.  For example, there is something in the road you must swerve around. You slam on the brakes, but at the same time try to turn the wheel.  Without ABS, you would likely skid, because all the wheels are locked up while you are holding down the brake pedal. As a result, you lose the ability to steer the vehicle.  The four-wheel ABS can help in situations like this. It prevents the wheels from locking up, helping you maintain steering control during braking. There are different types of ABS, so by looking in your owner’s manual you can tell.  Also, do not assume ABS alone prevents loss of control, other factors come in to play, such as having good tires; if the car has bald or wide sport tires the ABS may not prevent it from skidding on the snow.

The ABS system consists of four speed sensors (one at each wheel), an electronic control unit (ABS computer) and a hydraulic control unit (see the picture). The ABS computer monitors the signal from each wheel speed sensor. When it senses that any of the wheels are approaching lock up during braking, the ABS computer sends the signal to the hydraulic control unit, which modulates the braking pressure for a corresponding wheel(s) preventing it from locking up.  You can tell ABS is working when you feel the brake pedal pulsing under your foot.   So, next time you recognize this is happening, take a second to appreciate this technology we often take for granted.

        

The Sync entertainment and communication system, powered by Microsoft, is a bold new way to listen to and navigate music.  It was included on many 2008 Ford models, and not just exclusively on high end models.  Being new, the system isn't without its quirks, and like any technology, it takes the time to master.  Still, with its innovative features, ease of use and value, Sync is one of the most forward-thinking systems available.  So, what exactly is Sync? It is basically an onboard computer that manages music and communication devices that drivers or passengers carry into a car.  In place of a mouse, drivers use voice commands and buttons on the steering wheel to control a device such as a portable media player (PMP), mobile phone or PDA.  While vehicles that allow voice control of audio, navigation, a separate mobile phone and other onboard systems aren't new, Sync is the first to allow a driver to control nearly any PMP using voice commands. And it's the first to allow both receiving and replying to text messages without requiring drivers to take their hands off the wheel—or eyes off the road. 

Sync gets its upper hand with its superior voice-activation technology, which is not only convenient for entertainments sake, but also critical for on-the-road communication.  Sync uses the Bluetooth wireless communications standard to connect to mobile phones. Bluetooth allows hands-free calling in a car, and has become a common feature on many vehicles. But the Sync system takes in-car communication a step further by receiving and reading aloud text messages, including emoticons.  Sync's capabilities, at the same time, depend on the phone connected to it.  Another highlight of Sync is that it is the first factory in-vehicle system to include the Bluetooth Advanced Audio Distribution Profile (A2DP). A2DP allows wireless streaming of music from compatible phones or PDAs to a vehicle's audio system.  Sync comes in two basic configurations, depending on whether or not a vehicle is equipped with a navigation system.  What Sync has done for the Ford vehicles its installed in, is give consumers an affordable and safe way to integrate portable devices that people are carrying into their vehicles.

        

The Ford Escape Hybrid is an all around ‘green vehicle’.  It not only gets excellent mileage, but it features upholstery cloth made from 100-percent recycled material. Ford claims that compared to upholstery made from virgin fiber, production will conserve about 600,000 gallons of water and 7 million kilowatt hours of electricity annually, reducing carbon dioxide emissions by 1.8 million pounds. The Escape Hybrid is pleasant to drive. It handles well and has a firm, comfortable ride, without the jarring quality or the harsh suspension clanks that can characterize conventional truck-based SUVs with tall, Folding the rear seats opens a good sized cargo area with a flat floor, and space behind the seat surpasses that in the trunk of the typical sedan. Interior storage options have improved considerably. The finish is more upscale and pleasing, and feature function and switches are among the best. off-road tires and long-travel suspensions.  The Escape Hybrid ($25,075) and Hybrid 4WD ($26,825) are equipped similarly to the Limited Escape models, but add the hybrid powertrain.  Unlike some mild hybrid SUVs, the Escape Hybrid can run on 100 percent electric power up to about 25 mph.  The 2009 Ford Escape Hybrid provides comfortable seating for four, or five in a pinch.  Folding the rear seats opens a good sized cargo area with a flat floor, and space behind the seat surpasses that in the trunk of the typical sedan. Interior storage options have improved considerably. The finish is more upscale and pleasing than past models, and features and switch function are among the best.Folding the rear seats opens a good sized cargo area with a flat floor, and space behind the seat surpasses that in the trunk of the typical sedan. Interior storage options have improved considerably. The finish is more upscale and pleasing, and feature function and switches are among the best.

Ward’s Automotive Group has named Ford’s redesigned Escape and Mariner hybrid engine to its 2009 10 Best Engines list. The ‘10 Best Engines’ list marks North America’s only awards program honoring powertrain excellence and is designed to reflect the diversity of powertrains that will play a role in reshaping America’s automotive landscape.  A variety of factors helped the Escape win the award. Excellent fuel economy and drivability top its competitors.  Furthermore, the Escape was lauded for improvements made in hybrid technology, especially in its smooth shift from gas to electric.  Ford’s 2.5-liter, dual-overhead cam I-4 hybrid engine is new for this model year and was the only hybrid engine selected as a winner.   Improvements to the engine include a processor which enables nearly imperceptible transitions between gas and electric vehicle mode, and a new powertrain damping system to reduce vibrations and feedback to the driver and other vehicle occupants.  The Escape hybrid delivers fuel economy of 34 mpg city and 31 mpg highway, making it (and the Mariner) the most fuel-efficient compact SUVs in the world.The Escape proves an important point to consumers and the auto industry: good fuel efficiency doesn’t necessarily mean a reduction in performance, it is possible for them to co-exist, as it certainly does on the Escape.

        

No matter how careful you are with your new car, it is likely that a dent is going to happen at some point.   People work so hard to preserve the body of their vehicle, and getting a dent can be disappointing or upsetting.  Traditionally repairing a dent would be costly and time consuming.  But today many dents and dings can be repaired without a trace, and techniques have even been developed to do the work without removing the original paint.

Paintless dent removal (PDR), as it is called, has been around since the beginning of the decade, yet very few consumers are aware the process exists.  Specially fabricated tools and techniques for PDR have been developed to remove dents from almost any body panel of a vehicle. No sanding, body filler or repainting is necessary.  Basically, PDR offers consumers convenience and quality while saving them time and money.

As traditional paint repair has only gotten more expensive, PDR has advanced its realm of applications. The widespread use of high-strength metal and resilient paint finishes has allowed PDR to become a viable alternative to traditional body repair techniques. Paintless dent repair is very effective for various situations including large to small dents, on model years 1990 and newer, on uncracked paint, and in a spot that is not near the edge of a panel.  The advantages of PDR include that the vehicle retains original paint, there is no risk of paint overspray on other vehicle areas, the work usually can be same day service, and there is no risk of incorrect color matching.   A vehicle with original paint also retains a higher value than a repainted vehicle. PDR technicians use specialized tools to push the metal back into its original shape from behind the dent. Depending on the location of the damage, the panel is accessed by removing trim pieces, through window openings or by removing inner panels.  Most repairs can be completed in one to two hours. A general price range would be $75-100 for a single dent, and up to several hundred dollars to repair numerous dents on various body panels.

        

A vehicle's tires are one of the most important elements in a car's safety. As the only parts of the car that physically touch the ground, they are one of the key factors affecting a vehicle's handling and braking, and overall highway safety.  It is important to look at your tires often; a quick five minute inspection is worth the time since you are ensuring you and your family’s safety.  Underinflated tires are unsafe and make the vehicle less fuel efficient. Part of the problem with underinflation is that tires lose air through the rubber and at interfaces with the wheel and valve, sometimes so slowly that many people don't realize it has happened.  Even a small pressure loss--such as 4 psi--can affect a car's handling, making it harder to control. It can also make the ride softer and the car wallow.  A sidewall that flexes too much can also cause heat to build up excessively, which can shorten a tire's life and possibly lead to a tread separation or blowout.  Knowing this, at least once a month, use a tire gauge to check the pressure in all four tires and the spare.  Set the tires to the automaker's recommended tire pressure.

There are other things to look for when inspecting a tire. Look for cracking or cuts in the sidewalls, uneven tread wear, excessively worn tread, bulges or blisters, and excessive vibration while driving.  These issues could be caused by a variety of problems, from underinflated tires themselves, bad suspension, or alignment.  Never the less, do not ignore these warning signs.  If you become aware of any issues with your tires, have it checked out right away.  It is the only way to be safe.

        

Getting a new car can be an exciting and fulfilling event.  Yet, the car payments can easily get out of control, and dampen the enjoyment of the new vehicle.  Here are some tips to keep your car payments reasonable:

Use a force of nature
In some western/southern states, hail damage is common -- and a problem for new car dealers. Yet a   few dimples/dings do not affect a vehicle’s functionality.  This is especially true with a truck that is going to get dinged up anyhow.  Unlike, other forces of nature like flood damage, hail damage doesn't affect the operation (or warranty coverage) of the vehicle. It will run and drive and should last just as long as any other new car of its type.  New car buyers usually demand perfect sheet metal -- and so dealers are compelled to offer even very lightly hail-damaged new vehicles at discount prices.

Rethink ‘must-have’ options
Some features are rightly considered "must-have", such as air conditioning in a southern state. But some -- for example, automatic climate control air conditioning -- aren't. Both will keep the car cool and comfortable -- but one will cost you more.  Sometimes you must give up automatic functions for a batter price.  If you can live with turning a few knobs, you will save.   Premium audio systems, power seats, and extra-cost wheel/tire packages are others that you may be able to live without.

How many cylinders
A great way to save a good chunk of money is to downgrade on the cylinders. The average new car four-cylinder engine produces as much power as the typical V-6 did 10 or so years ago. And today's V-6 engines offer 200-plus horsepower -- output levels that V-8s used to have.  Just make sure you to a thorough test drive before making any final decisions.  As a bonus to saving on a smaller engine, your gas bill will be less too.

Order only what you need
Dealers will sometimes try to hard sell you into buying off the lot rather than ordering a car with just the equipment you want -- and nothing more. For the dealer, this tactic moves inventory off the lot -- and he "up-sells" you into a more expensive model/trim line.  But for you, it will only be a more expensive car payment. If the exact car you want is not available among the cars the dealer has in stock, ask that it be ordered for you -- with just the equipment you want.

Buy less popular
Any vehicle that's trendy will come at a top price.  But, dealers are much more likely to give you a deal on slow sellers.  You may even still save money for buying a vehicle with poor fuel economy, such as an
SUV (as their sales are at an all time low).

        

Winter driving can be dangerous, but if you take the right steps there is no reason to be a prisoner in your own home for the entire winter.  Putting winter tires, with special traction, on your vehicle is a must. Driving behind the wheel knowing you have winter traction should give you great confidence.  Today's high tech winter tires utilize tread designs and features such as the multicell rubber compound to give you traction in snow and ice that is considerably better than what you can achieve from all-season tires.

A big part of gaining control is driving smart and thinking ahead, instead of relying on quick reactions, which are sure to lose your control.  There are two sure ways to lose your tires’ grip on the road, understeering and oversteering.  Understeer is just what it sounds like: the car is not turning as much as you would like. Being in a car that refuses to turn can be very intimidating, and understeer is the most difficult situation to control on a slippery road. This is why you must adjust your speed properly before entering a corner and avoid the situation entirely. Understeer is usually caused by entering a corner too fast or by braking while trying to turn. In front-wheel drive cars, understeer can result from excessive acceleration while cornering.  The proper way to negotiate any curve or corner is to brake on the straightway before the curve to adjust your speed; then coast and steer through the turn. When you start to straighten the steering wheel as you exit the curve, gently accelerate out of the turn.

So what can you do if you find yourself in a skid?  Do not increase your steering angle, because the tires have already lost grip and increasing the steering will only make it worse. Don't hit the brakes because the front tires are already skidding, and more brake pressure will only make it still worse.  Your best chance of correcting an understeer is to lift off the accelerator and stay off the brake. As the car's weight shifts forward, it will load the front tires, improving their grip while you carefully decrease the steering angle. This improved grip and slower speed should allow you to steer smoothly back into the corner.

Oversteer is when your car turns more than you want it to. Oversteer occurs when you lose grip on the rear tires in a corner, and the side force pulls the back of the car to the outside of the turn. This is generally the result of going to fast when entering a corner. If you suddenly decelerate in the corner, the weight transfers to the front, giving less grip to the rear tires. To avoid oversteer, again, adjust your speed before the corner, by anticipating trouble, you will be ready to respond if the rear end of the car starts to swing out. If you do lose grip, never slam on the brakes.  You should gently accelerate to transfer the weight back to the rear wheels, while you steer in the same direction in which the rear end is sliding.  Be ready to re-take control of the steering once the tires regain their grip.  If you don't steer back to your original direction before the car recovers, you could end up skidding in the opposite direction. This is known as a counter-skid. 

When driving in slippery conditions go slow, plan ahead, do not break hard, and if you find yourself sliding do not wrench the steering wheel the other way, it will only make things worse.  If you do this, you should be able to venture out any winter day with confidence and ease.

 

        

The U.S. auto industry has never been "greener" than it is now. Carmakers are under increased pressure, not just from the government, but also from consumers, to develop cars that burn cleaner fuel or reduce our dependency on foreign oil.  Recent efforts from American automakers have allowed them to level the playing field with foreign made vehicles, which in the past, easily surpassed the U.S. companies in enviro-friendly technology.

It is true that the auto companies have had some serious nudging from the government and their standards.  In July, when the U.S Senate began making noises about a new energy bill that would require Detroit carmakers to attain an average fuel economy of 35 miles per gallon by 2022.  Yet, buyers today are savvier than ever, and they're making their voices heard -- they want cars that produce lower emissions or reduce the consumption of natural resources. Ford is embracing the hybrid philosophy through SUVs, with the 2008 Ford Escape Hybrid SUV and its sister vehicle, the 2008 Mercury Mariner Hybrid. Ford says that both have improved their in-city fuel economy numbers to 34 mpg, and that the Escape Hybrid actually delivers 80 percent better fuel economy in the city than the conventional V-6 Escape.

The Escape / Mariner Hybrids are "full hybrids." That means that, depending on the driving situation, they automatically switch back and forth between purely electric power and purely gas-engine power -- or a combination of the two. The real savings comes in situations where less power is needed -- in which case the vehicles can run on electric power alone at speeds of up to 25 mph.

Another improvement goes beyond the engine - the 2008 Escape and Escape Hybrid are believed to be the first U.S. auto-biz applications of 100-percent recycled fabric seating surfaces. The new fabric is provided by Interface Fabrics, Inc, and is produced from "post-industrial waste" -- meaning anything intended for retail use but never made it to the consumer, such as plastic intended for soda bottles or polyester fibers that were never dyed.  Ford announced that the 2008 Mustang will be the first production vehicle to use soy-based foam in its seats. Since the soy-based foam uses less energy during production, the amount of CO2 released into the atmosphere is also reduced.

As the big three race for the ultimate environmental solution, such as the hydrogen fuel-cell vehicle, the solution will likely not be just one technology, but a number of different technologies combined that meet the needs of different customers in many different markets.