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brand new 2023 Ford Bronco Sport having some fun kicking up dirt off road.

Meet the 2023 Ford Bronco Sport

Whether you're navigating your way through off-road terrains or cruising highways and city streets with family or a group of friends, the 2023 Ford Bronco Sport easily accommodates. In addition to standard four-wheel drive and exceptional engine performance, this compact SUV delivers plenty of comfortable interior amenities and advanced entertainment options, ensuring no drive is boring. Versatile Performance This edition performs just as well off-road as it does on-road, thanks to its two powerful engine options and a wide array of trail-conquering features. If the 181-horsepower 1.5-liter base engine doesn't suit you, there's also a 2.0-liter engine that delivers 250 horsepower. Even with standard four-wheel drive, both engines offer exceptional fuel efficiency, with up to 26 mpg in combined city/highway driving offered by the 1.5-liter and an estimated 23 mpg achievable with the 2.0-liter. G.O.A.T. Modes is a standard terrain management system that comes standard on every model as well, and with it, you can gauge your surroundings and then quickly switch into different driving modes to optimize traction and tackle whatever challenges lie ahead. This is complemented by the High-Speed Off-Road Suspension System (H.O.S.S.), which delivers smoother rides and enhanced handling at every turn. more Comfortable Yet Tough The 2023 Bronco Sport's interior prioritizes comfort and convenience, with leather-trimmed seats with a heating function and dual-zone climate control offering comfort, regardless of the weather outside. A 60/40 bench seat that folds down, an under-seat storage area, and 64.2 cubic feet of space for cargo all provide plenty of room for equipment and gear, while Ford's Cargo Management System is available to organize it all. Outside, the available tow hooks and safari-style roof, as well as the steel bash plates that come standard on Badlands and Heritage Limited models, all make this edition the perfect excuse to set out for adventures through nature and camping trips. Technology and Safety A wide array of impressive technology can also be found throughout this SUV, including the SYNC 3 infotainment system. Offering hands-free control, as well as seamless integration with the 180-degree Trail Cam, this feature delivers entertainment, navigation, and personalized driver settings, providing both fun and convenience on every drive. The vehicle's safety systems will impress as well, like Lane Keeping System, which can help you stay centered in your lane with steering wheel nudges and alerts, and Automatic High-Beam Headlamps that adapt to ambient lighting differences outside. While it's always good to check your mirrors before changing lanes, the Blind Spot Information System (BLIS) can serve as an additional backup by letting you know if it detects other vehicles in your blind spots when making lane changes. The 2023 Bronco Sport is as adventurous as it is stylish, and its interior is more than accommodating with luxury, convenience, and advanced technology found throughout. Come get behind the wheel of this unique fan favorite today by contacting our friendly staff at Madison Ford.

two surfers off-loading their brand new red 2023 Ford Ranger with their surfboards getting ready to hit the waves

Your Guide to the 2023 Ford Ranger

Today's pickups rarely offer strong performance without compromising fuel efficiency, yet the 2023 Ford Ranger does so effortlessly and with off-road capabilities to match. It also provides an incredibly luxurious cabin packed with today's most advanced technology throughout, making every drive a relaxing adventure, whether you're using it for everyday driving or cross-country road trips. Versatile Performance The 2023 Ranger's engine, a 270-horsepower turbocharged 2.3-liter, not only offers reliable performance at both low and high speeds but also excellent fuel efficiency on long journeys as it gets an estimated 26 mpg on highways. If you plan to take this truck off-road, you'll love how versatile it is, thanks to its available four-wheel drive, terrain management system, and an independent front suspension that provides smooth rides and more control. You'll also be able to tow as much as 7,500 pounds if you go with the Trailer Tow Package, making trips with a camper or heavily loaded trailer a breeze. more Interior and Design Inside and outside, this pickup offers plenty of style and convenience, from the power locking tailgate and durable running board options to the dual-zone climate control and seven-color ambient lighting system. Rain-sensing wipers are also available, and if the regular cloth, premium cloth, or vinyl seats don't suit you, you can always go with a set of leather-trimmed ones with Miko suede inserts for a bit of style mixed with luxury. Staying connected and entertained is easier than ever before with all the Ranger's advanced tech features, like dual 4.2-inch productivity screens and SYNC 3, a multi-function infotainment system that lets you use your voice or an 8-inch touchscreen to control it. There's also a high-clarity B&O sound system, in addition to the standard six-speaker one, as well as a 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot. Safety Monitoring To make every trip safer, whether you're driving cross-country or running errands around town, this edition offers hi-tech safety features, like the self-adapting Auto High-Beam Headlamps, which automatically adjust to your surroundings. When other vehicles start to approach your blind spot areas, the Blind Spot Information System (BLIS) can alert you to this, so you don't change lanes until the coast is clear. If you find yourself in a situation where you're approaching another vehicle quickly and don't see it, Pre-Collision Assist can alert you to its presence, and if you still don't respond, Automatic Emergency Braking can then apply brake pressure to help you avoid a collision. With the latest technology, excellent handling, and the performance you need for both tough jobs and exciting adventures, this pickup has it all. Come climb inside the 2023 Ranger to see why drivers are loving it by scheduling your test drive with us today at Madison Ford.

brand new gray 2023 Ford Bronco without doors on sitting on the the beach by the waters edge near Madison Ford.

2023 Ford Bronco Basics

Start your next adventure in the Bronco SUV with multiple customization options and modern technology. Ready for any terrain, the Bronco provides impressive off-roading and spacious accommodations. Here's a glance at the 2023 Ford Bronco. The Bronco is an off-roading SUV that brings its classic look to the 2023 market. Its rugged design and powerful performance are built to conquer any terrain. It comes in three new colors, including an original classic of Robin's egg blue from 1966. Off-Roading Features When it comes to off-roading, the features inside the 2023 Bronco provide an excellent 11.6-inch ground clearance, allowing you to navigate rough terrains. The 33.5-inch water fording can help you tackle adventures over streams and rivers. For added protection, a steel bash plate and tow hooks are available. The trail turn assist features also help you with tight maneuvers on the trails. more Innovative Terrain Technology Unique terrain technology, including G.O.A.T. Modes, makes the Bronco stand out. G.O.A.T. stands for Goes Over Any Type of Terrain and includes sport, eco, normal, and seven more modes allowing drivers to choose the best mode depending on driving conditions. The Bronco has Trail Toolbox Technologies, including trail turn assist, Ford trail control, and trail 1-pedal drive. Plus, it has smartphone integration with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto helps you stay connected on the road. In addition, the Bronco comes standard with Ford Co-Pilot360 safety features like a 360-degree camera and hill descent control. Classic Bronco Exterior Two-door or four-door options are available on the Bronco based on your preferences. Both configurations have removable doors and roof options, allowing for an open-air driving experience. The heavy-duty modular front bumper also provides a bold and classic front design. Spacious Interior On the inside, the Bronco is well-designed with your choice of cloth, marine-grade vinyl, or leather-trimmed seat options. Seating up to four, there are 99 cubic feet of passenger space. In the two-door model, folding the seats flat provides 52.3 cubic feet of cargo space, while the four-door model offers 77.6 maximum cubic feet of space. For outdoor adventures, the Bronco boasts unique drain plugs in the rubber floor mats and grab handles inside the cabin for rough rides. Customizable Accessories The 2023 Bronco SUV has standard customizable accessories, including L.E.D. headlamps, rearview camera, and rear fender flares. The mid package offers additional features such as a remote start system, A.C. power outlet, and heated front seats. The Lux package includes adaptive cruise control, a universal garage door opener, and an evasive steering assist for those looking for more automotive luxury. Customizable in every way, the 2023 Bronco provides something for each adventure seeker. Whether you're interested in the off-road capabilities or looking for accessories to fit your lifestyle, the Bronco is designed for any driving experience. Visit us at Madison Ford to start your next adventure with a brand-new 2023 Bronco.

4 Key Features of the 2023 Ford Mustang

If you're looking for an iconic sports car that is made by a reputable company, you need to see what the 2023 Ford Mustang has to offer. From the way it looks to the way it sounds, this car has been part of the American landscape since the mid-1960s. This muscle car has endured because it has something to offer everyone. It has evolved over time, and the latest version has some key features that set it apart. 1. Powerful Engines The Mustang wouldn't be a sports car if it didn't offer a variety of powerful engines. One engine option you can choose from includes a 5.0-L Ti-VCT V8 engine that produces 450 horsepower and 410 pound-feet of torque. There's also a 5.0-L Ti-VCT V8 engine that produces 470 horsepower and 410 pound-feet of torque. This option is paired with a six-speed manual transmission with rev matching. The final engine option is a 2.3-L EcoBoost engine that produces 310 horsepower and 350 pound-feet of torque. With this engine, you can also add a 2.3-L High Performance package, which produces 330 horsepower and 350 pound-feet of torque. more 2. Precise Handling With so much power at your disposal, you want to make sure you can stay in control of your vehicle, and this car is equipped with features that make handling precise. The independent suspension and selectable power-assisted steering are in place to deliver responsive performance that helps you hug curves and tackle the straightaways. You can also add a MagneRide Damping System to make your ride as smooth as possible. 3. Leading-Edge Technology This sports car has a touchscreen equipped with SYNC 3 technology. You have the option of adding a voice-activated navigation system to ensure you have the right route to make it to any destination. You can also customize the colors and layout of the 12-inch LCD digital cluster to ensure you always have the important information you need while traveling down the road. Track Apps also comes standard with all models of the Mustang, allowing you to quickly and easily display your performance metrics on your instrument cluster. You'll be able to keep track of your acceleration and lap times and lateral and longitudinal g-forces, among others. 4. Safety Features You'll find Ford Co-Pilot360 technology in this vehicle, which gives you driver-assist features such as blind spot information with cross-traffic alert, a rearview camera, pre-collision assist with automatic emergency braking, auto high-beam headlamps, and lane keep assist. The Mustang has endured as an iconic muscle car for so long because it offers features that people want. If you want to discover these key features for yourself, visit Madison Ford today.

3 Kid-Friendly Activities You Can Drive to Near Madison, VA

Madison, VA is a region known for its breathtaking scenery and family-friendly outings! Here are just a few of the kid friendly activities that are within driving distance of this historic area. Image From Pixabay 1. Spend an Afternoon at Yoder's Country Market Yoder's Country Market isn't like any old market. You'll immediately feel at home when you walk through the doors, where you'll be greeted with the smells of delicious baked goods, homemade soups, and savory pork barbecue. Kids will love the candy aisle, which has sweets ranging from jelly beans to fudge. The fun doesn't stop after you and the family enjoy a bite to eat, because outside the market is a free petting zoo. You can purchase feed if you want to feed the animals, and after you see the alpacas, goats, and chickens, we know you'll want to! Visit Yoder's at 2105 S. Seminole Tr. on weekdays from 7:30 to 6 and on Saturdays from 7:30 to 5. more 2. Go Underground in Luray Caverns About an hour's drive outside of Madison is the famous Luray Caverns, which is the largest cavern in Eastern America. Take a self-guided tour along the walkway through caves that are ten stories high! The entire family will be amazed when they see the biggest lake in the cavern: It creates an illusion by reflecting the stalactites hanging from the ceiling and producing a mirror image. You won't want to miss this magical underground experience, so buckle up the kids in your 2023 Ford Explorer and pack some snacks. Luray Caverns is located at 101 Cave Hill Road and is open daily from 9 to 6. 3. Solve the Mystery of the Garden Maze Within the grounds of the Caverns is another attraction that families love! The Garden Maze will test your problem-solving skills as you'll have to navigate through 1500 Evergreen hedges to find clues and reveal the maze's secret. The maze is equipped for all kinds of weather, with free umbrellas on site and misting stations to cool you down. Completing the maze will take you anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour, but the memories you make with your family will last for years to come. It's easy to capture beautiful moments here, as the views and the greenery make great backgrounds for photos. The Garden Maze is open on weekdays from 11 to 5 and on weekends from 11 to 6. Enjoy your day of family fun with a car that's in tip-top condition! Get in touch with us at Madison Ford to give your vehicle a quick service before you head out on the road, or let us help you find the perfect vehicle for all of your family's adventures.

Trim Levels of the 2023 Ford Explorer

The 2023 Ford Explorer is a family-friendly crossover SUV that can be customized exactly to your specifications. With a wide range of trim levels to choose from, you will be able to find an Explorer that matches your needs. Base The base-level Explorer is powered by a 2.3L turbo four-cylinder engine that comes in both AWD and RWD configurations. The RWD version enjoys an average 21/28 mpg rating across city/highway, while the AWD sports comparable 20/27 mpg ratings. The base Explorer comes standard with loads of Ford's safety tech, including lane keep assist, automatic emergency braking, automatic high beams, and rear cross-traffic alert. Other features of note include a power liftgate, LED headlights, and privacy glass for the windows. more XLT The XLT-level trim builds on the Explorer's base and adds 18-inch wheels, lane centering, and a set of second-row captain's chairs that change the SUV's total seating arrangement to seven. The side view mirrors also receive an upgrade to heated versions, which can help improve visibility in the winter. ST-Line The ST-Line trim level adds trim-specific exterior styling and 20-inch alloy wheels to the exterior of the Explorer and provides a number of interior and technology upgrades as well. These include rain-sensing wipers, integrated native navigation in the infotainment console, a wireless charging pad in the center console, and a 12-speaker Bang and Olufsen premium sound system to crank up the tunes. Timberline The Timberline is the Explorer that's designed to handle offroading and is upgraded with a specialized suspension system, skid plates, and Ford's terrain management system to help improve traction while traversing uneven ground. Other quality-of-life upgrades include a 360-degree HD camera to see around the vehicle, heated rear seats and a heated steering wheel, and the option to make the third-row bench power folding. Limited The Limited trim provides a number of comfort upgrades to the interior of the Explorer on the base of the XLT, including leather upholstery throughout, ambient lighting, and heated and ventilated front seats. The major change with the Limited trim is the available hybrid powertrain over the standard inline-four, which combines a 3.3L V6 with an electric motor to produce 318 horsepower. ST The ST provides sporty handling and performance to the Explorer, with an upgraded 400 horsepower 3L V6, leather upholstered unique sport seats, and unique interior and exterior styling for this trim level. A sports suspension system provides stiff and more responsive handling. Platinum The Platinum adds adaptive headlights that angle themselves with your steering wheel, unique diamond-shaped leather inserts in the seats, 21-inch metal alloy wheels, an auto-dimming driver's side mirror, and the option to ​include Ford's automatic ​parallel parking feature. King Ranch The King Ranch uses the same V6 as the ST-level trim but doesn't have the sport aesthetics or suspension system to match. Instead, the interior of the King Ranch has its own unique western-themed leather upholstery with wood accents, as well as upgraded technology like driver's seat and mirror memory settings, reverse automatic braking, and a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster behind the steering wheel. Want to get your hands on one of the trim levels of the 2023 Explorer? Give us a call at Madison Ford today and one of our experienced team members will be more than happy to set up an appointment for a test drive.

Pictured is a brand new red 2023 Ford F-150 towing large construction equipment through a construction site.

Your Guide to the 2023 Ford F-150

If you're looking for a pickup that can be used for tough jobs, everyday commutes, or off-road adventures, the 2023 Ford F-150 ticks all of these boxes and more. With plenty of powerful engine options, available four-wheel drive, and a stylish interior that's packed with a wide array of smart tech features, this truck aims to please every type of driver. Performance Although there are many different choices when it comes to the 2023 F-150's engines, the 430-horsepower hybrid V6 and 700-horsepower 5.2-liter V8 have generated quite a buzz among drivers. Even some of the more modest options, like the 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6, offer incredible horsepower and towing, with this particular engine delivering 400 horses and a maximum 14,000-pound tow rating. When venturing off-road with any of the 4x4-equipped models, the Selectable Drive Modes system helps you quickly adapt the vehicle to varying terrains, allowing you to go where few pickups in this class normally can. more Interior This edition's interior is both stylish and relaxing and offers a wide array of different seating options. In the rear of the vehicle, the flip-and-fold seats make it easy to accommodate extra cargo when you have fewer passengers, while the leather seats up front can be heated or ventilated with the push of a button. For times when you want to stargaze or take in views of nature while driving off-road, there's the twin-panel moon roof, and to secure valuable cargo while tucking it away out of sight, there's also a lockable under-seat storage area available. Technology Combining entertainment with convenience and navigation assistance, the SYNC 4 system offers a hands-free solution for accessing satellite radio channels, playing music and videos, getting turn-by-turn instructions to your next destination, and more. Then there's Pro Power Onboard, which is a mobile electricity generator that's strong enough to power up appliances like mini fridges during campouts and power tools on construction jobs. You could also have an internet connection wherever you go, thanks to the available 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot. Safety Plenty of sophisticated safety and driver-assist features are also offered, including Auto High-Beam Headlamps, which turn off your high beams when lights from other vehicles are detected. Watching both your driving behaviors and other vehicles around you, the Intelligent Adaptive Cruise Control System is capable of keeping the vehicle at your preferred speed while only adjusting this when traffic conditions change. Intersection Collision Assist makes left-hand turns safer by keeping an eye on approaching traffic at intersections, while Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking work together to monitor for slowed traffic in your lane while stopping your vehicle if necessary. If the 2023 F-150's comfortable interior and stylish design don't catch your attention, then its strong performance and off-road versatility certainly will. To see this popular Ford pickup in the flesh, reach out to us today at Madison Ford.

red vehicle on the back of a tow truck that looks completely totaled. Road way side rails are sticking out of the bottom of the vehicle and the front is smashed in.

What to Expect when Getting Collision Repair

If your car has been damaged, you suddenly have to juggle getting to work, shopping, and social engagements without your trusted Ford. You also worry about the cost and quality of the repair you'll receive. If you live anywhere from Culpepper, VA, to Charlottesville, VA, here is everything you need to know about collision repair. Image obtained from Pexabay Arrival When your Ford arrives at a collision department, the first step is to assess the extent of the damage. A small dent, for example, may have caused more serious damage under the surface. An expert will conduct a thorough assessment of the damage while we assist you with the check-in process. Once check-in is complete, you can get shuttled to get you to your rental. more Estimate and Insurance After the damage assessment is complete, you will be provided a written estimate for the cost of repairs and the time to completion. Shops can answer any questions you have about the damage or repair process. If you're arranging the repair yourself, they will wait for you to confirm, and then start the process. If your insurance is arranging the repair, shops will liaise with them to speed up the process. Most collision shops work with most insurance companies, so should be familiar with policies and requirements. This knowledge enables them to provide everything needed to reduce any delay. Repair When confirmation is received from you or your insurance company, collision centers will put the repair plan into action. A team is created that is dedicated to completing your repair efficiently and with quality service. This team's focus is your Ford's repair, and this enables your repair to be completed flawlessly and as quickly as possible. They know you want your Ford back on the drive ASAP, and will make that happen. Shops have a large parts store to supply any necessary replacement parts, and will typically use genuine Ford parts in all repairs. Using genuine parts ensures the repair matches the high quality of the rest of your car. Collection Once the repair work is completed, one of the experts will take your Ford for a test drive. This test will confirm that your car works perfectly under real-world conditions. They will thoroughly clean your car and let you know that it's ready for collection. If you're needing regular maintenance, please give contact us or call us today at Madison Ford.

picture of an aesthetic boutique's clothing rack where the rack is made of natural wood. Clothes are all white and denim blue spotted hung on wooden clothes hangers.

Drive on Over to These 3 Great Shopping Spots Near Madison, VA

Madison, VA, is a charming town with plenty of awesome shopping options, and what better way to explore them all than in a new 2023 Ford Escape? This article is for anyone looking for some great spots in Madison to satisfy their urge to shop. Whether you're after unique boutiques, antique stores, or luxury brands, the town has plenty to offer. We'll share some of our favorite places here so you can plan your next buying spree adventure with ease! Image obtained from Pixabay Figure Fittin Fashions Figure Fittin Fashions, located at 2617 S Seminole Trl Ste A in Madison, is a women's clothing and accessory boutique that offers a unique collection of the latest trends. It has something for every style and features handmade items from local artisans. It's the perfect place to find one-of-a-kind pieces to complete any wardrobe. The store carries an array of stunning designer labels, as well as classic basics and signature prints. Customers can also find stylish accessories like jewelry, handbags, scarves, shoes, and hats to accessorize their look. In addition to apparel and accessories, Figure Fitting Fashions offers custom alterations to ensure the perfect fit. more Dollar General Dollar General, located at 554 S Main Street in Madison, is the perfect place for anyone looking for a great deal. The store provides shoppers with an eclectic selection of items that run the gamut from home goods and party accessories to clothing and food. With so many products available, Dollar General is a one-stop shop for customers who want to save money on a variety of different items. The store's commitment to offering quality products at an affordable price has made it a favorite among locals. Those who visit can find all sorts of items, such as kitchen appliances, cleaning supplies, health and beauty products, pet supplies, decorations for any occasion, clothes for men and women of all sizes, electronics, and much more! Clore Furniture Looking to upgrade the furniture in your home? Clore Furniture is a family-owned furniture shop located at 303 Clore Pl in Madison. Since 1830, they have been producing finely crafted pieces that are designed to be admired for generations. Customers can find a wide selection of pieces made from responsibly sourced wood. This ranges from bedroom sets, sofas and chairs to dining tables and other home accessories. Each piece is carefully crafted with precision and expertise from start to finish. With quality as their number one priority, the team at Clore Furniture pays close attention to detail during every step of the manufacturing process. All materials are chosen for their unique characteristics and natural beauty that will enhance any room in your home or office. The result is timeless furniture you'll be proud to own for years to come. Stop by Madison Ford today to find your perfect vehicle and enjoy a visit to all of these fantastic establishments!

Up close shot of a delicious juicey thick burger with melted cheese and beautiful leafy greens on a sesame bun.

3 Great Spots With the Best Burgers in Driving Distance of Madison, VA

Living in Madison, VA, you are never far away from some excellent grub. Food from all corners of the globe can be easily found around town, however, even with all these choices, sometimes, nothing beats a delicious burger. Luckily, here in Madison, we have some of the best burgers in the state! Whether you're looking for a messy gut-buster or a high-end, gourmet burger, here are a few of our favorite places you should check out. Image obtained from Pexel Pig 'N Steak Everyone loves a good BBQ. There's something beautiful about tender, smokey, slow-cooked meats, and putting them in a burger is even better! It's this that makes Pig 'N Steak so special; their burgers are packed full of delicious, home-smoked meats. Located at 313 Washington Street, this place isn't just famous for its burgers, as there are also tons of great BBQ platters that are great for sharing with friends and family. Mad Local American Eatery Located at 218 North Main Street, Mad Local American Eatery is the place to go for all things American. The joint specializes in messy sandwiches and massive burgers, such as the Military Veteran; a huge burger made up of 3 beef patties topped with American cheese, pickles, salad, and mayo. On top of the excellent sandwiches and burgers, there are also some incredible sides and sharers, such as the hangover fries and popcorn shrimp. Mad Local American Eatery is situated in a quaint building at 218 North Main Street, and it often gets pretty busy. If you can't find a seat, then don't worry, as all the amazing food here is available for takeaway too! And, with the new stain-resistant ActiveX seats fitted as standard on the new Ford EcoSport, you can pull up somewhere nice to enjoy your burger without worrying about damaging your upholstery. Miranda's Restaurant If you're looking for great, local food, Miranda's Restaurant is easily one of the best in the area. Situated at 217 North Main Street, opposite Mad Local American Eatery, this unassuming, laid-back joint serves up a huge assortment of American classics such as Philly cheesesteak subs, country fried steak, fried catfish, and, of course, some absolutely incredible burgers. When it comes to great burgers, not many places in the state surpass the quality of these spots. From slow-cooked BBQ sandwiches at Pig 'N Steak to huge burgers at Mad Local American Eatery, there's something on this list for everyone! We'd love to hear your thoughts on these spots, so come visit us at Madison Ford after your food to let us know how it was while checking out our impressive selection of new and used cars.

Certified Ford technician working on a Ford catalytic converter.

Does Your Ford Need a New Catalytic Converter?

The chemical process inside your catalytic converter helps keep our cities cleaner and our lungs healthier. That's the reason for the laws requiring every driver to have a fully functioning cat. If you ever suspect your car's cat is broken, visit your nearest Ford dealer immediately to have it repaired. Here are five warning signs to look out for. Image obtained from Pexel Oxygen-Starved Engine When your cat becomes clogged up, it blocks the outflow of emissions. This backed-up flow of gas and air slows down the inflow of fresh oxygen into the engine. When an engine becomes starved of oxygen, the fuel-air mixture inside the combustion chambers becomes unbalanced. This leads to misfiring, a loss of power, lagging acceleration, falling gas mileage, rough idling, and even stalling. Blinking Check Engine Light The various advanced sensors throughout your engine quickly pick up on the problems mentioned above. You'll be alerted by the Check Engine light coming to life on your instrument panel. Although you won't initially know the specific problem triggering the warning light, it's never wise to ignore it. Have a technician diagnose the problem for you. Excessive Heat Under Your Car If emissions have trouble exiting your exhaust system and start to back up, a great deal of heat and pressure build up just before the cat. Unburned fuel from an oxygen-starved engine can further increase this heat as it tries to escape through your exhaust. A leaky exhaust valve or a failed oxygen sensor might also create a buildup of cat heat. You'll notice heat build-up if you crouch to check under your car. But don't touch anything with your bare hand in case it burns you. How a Ford Dealer Measures Cat Heat Technicians have suitable and safe heat-detection tools such as a pyrometer or an infrared thermometer. While running the engine, they'll take the temperature just upstream and downstream of the cat and compare it to ordinary expected levels. Thickening Emissions Exhaust shouldn't normally be very thick as most of the emissions are converted into benign gases like carbon dioxide and water vapor. But when a cat breaks down, the uncleaned emissions begin to escape, and you're likely to notice thickening exhaust behind your car. Sulfur Smell From Your Exhaust One of the toxic gases produced by the engine is hydrogen sulfide, which is poisonous when breathed. If your cat stops doing its job, you're likely to smell this gas. It has a strong sulfury smell that's similar to rotten eggs. If you smell it, open all your windows to let fresh air in and visit your nearest dealership right away. Have your cat repaired today at Madison Ford. We have excellent vehicles, and our goal is to make your purchasing or servicing experience as simple and hassle-free as possible.

close up of a little brunette haired girl reaching out to a low baring tree branch to pick some red apples.

3 Fun Fall Activities You Can Drive to Near Madison, VA

Located in the Shenandoah Valley, Madison offers a great variety of fall activities that you can drive to. No matter what type of activity you choose, you are sure to have a wonderful time exploring the beauty of Madison, VA, this fall. Image obtained from Google Apple Picking at Hollin Farms If you have little ones that love apples, you'll want to make a stop at the Hollin Farms to explore their huge selection of apples. This farm is a wonderful place where families can enjoy picking apples and find plenty of other family-friendly activities. At Hollin Farms, you can also pick blackberries, peaches, pumpkins, and more. If you don't have your own containers, don't worry! They have all you need. Hollin Farms is located at 6237 Allen Road, The Plains. Enjoy the Fall Foliage at the Sky Meadows State Park Located at 3350 Jeruselum Mill Road, WirtzSky Meadows State Park is the perfect place to visit when the fall foliage is in full bloom. At Sky Meadows State Park, you can hike a wide variety of trails to enjoy the fall foliage. The best time to visit Sky Meadows is in October when the leaves begin changing colors and covering the trees with splashes of reds, oranges, and yellows. There are many places to stop along these hiking trails to take pictures or just admire nature at its finest! If you're looking for something a little more active, then horseback riding in Sky Meadows might be just what you need! This park offers both guided and unguided horseback rides through its many scenic trails, where riders can enjoy breathtaking scenery while learning about local wildlife and plants along the way. Visiting the Graves Mountain Lodge Apple Festival The Graves Mountain Lodge Apple Festival is a wonderful annual event that you will not want to miss this fall. At the apple festival, you can enjoy a wide variety of family-friendly activities. Graves Mountain Lodge Apple Festival is located at 15397 State Route 644, The Plains. You can take a hayride, explore the whimsical corn maze, visit the apple orchard, and much more. At the apple festival, you can also sample delicious apple treats and purchase beautiful apple-themed items. This is a great way to celebrate the harvest season and have fun with your family. These three fun activities near Madison are great for all ages, and the allure of the season should make any of these outings even better. Rising gas prices can certainly put a damper on any trips you plan to make around Madison, so it's a good thing your new Ford Escape is fuel-efficient on both city and highways! Stop by Madison Ford to test drive one of our fuel-efficient cars for yourself.

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