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Our vehicles are just like every other machine. After a certain amount of time cruising West Michigan, maintenance will be required to keep your vehicle running efficiently. All of this will, in turn, improve your vehicle’s overall performance and increase its longevity. But what exactly goes into vehicle maintenance and a “tune up”? What happens if you don’t do anything? Read on to find out, and trust the experts at the Borgman Service Center in Grand Rapids to keep you moving! What vehicle maintenance do I need to do regularly? The best way to check the maintenance needed for your vehicle is to pull out that owner’s manual. By confirming what maintenance needs to be done, you can avoid any unnecessary charges regarding services. The manual will also provide you with a recommended maintenance schedule that will benefit you in the long run in keeping your vehicle in tip top shape. Here are a few things you should do regular maintenance on and why it is crucial to do so. Oil - Scheduling regular oil changes is important in helping to maintain cooling components, engine lubrication, cleanliness of engine (removing of particles and sludge from engine wear), good gas mileage, and most importantly, the vehicle’s longevity. Air Filter - These should be replaced between every 15,000-30,000 miles. In doing so, that replacement will allow increased fuel efficiency, reduced emissions and prolonged engine life. An air filter replacement is an inexpensive, quick fix and also very easy to track for vehicles. Transmission Flush - This often goes unnoticed until something serious happens with your transmission. A transmission flush is where the oil inside is removed and new oil is run through to remove any built up grime or sludge. This will also remove any unnecessary particles and debris while giving your vehicle fresh, clean fluid. If done properly, a transmission flush can be an excellent preventative maintenance procedure. Spark Plugs - While these little guys are manufactured to be very durable, it doesn’t mean they need to go untouched. Spark plugs are very important. Manufactures are finding that spark plugs don’t need maintenance until 30,000 to 100,000 miles, but there are consequences to not paying them enough attention. Bad spark plugs can cause an engine to misfire which can harm gas mileage and cause a meltdown of converter parts, an increase in cold starts during the winter, and an increase in voltage needed for the ignition system (will drain your battery). So to keep your vehicle from losing its spark, be sure to give those spark plugs some loving. Belts (Serpentine & Timing) - The purpose of your serpentine belt is to keep components moving correctly to avoid metal on metal collisions. If it needs to be replaced, the serpentine belt will make noise when revving your engine due to lack of tension. Worst case scenario, if not replaced, it could break while driving and cause a chain reaction of malfunctions. It is best to replace this belt between 60,000 to 100,000 miles. By doing so, this will give you a worry-free mindset while driving. Now the timing belt is a little different. It allows the operation of the engine's intake, compression, combustion, and exhaust strokes to synchronize in an efficient manner through valves and cylinder heads. It is extremely important to pay attention to this belt as it wears down over time. If it breaks, your engine will stop immediately, causing the cylinder heads to rub with the valves resulting in some hefty damage. Past “Tune Up” vs. Today’s “Tune Up” Before certain advancements in vehicle technology came about, the phrase “tune up” meant much more than we are used to hearing today. Here is what the original tune up consisted of: replacement of spark plugs, fuel filter, and air filter. The technician would also inspect the distributor cap, rotor and other points for wear (replacing if necessary). When all parts were replaced, they would then check all of the engine settings, including the adjustment of carburetor linkages, point gap and dwell, ignition timing, etc. This tune up could easily be a few hours depending on what vehicle you had. Tune ups have come a long way due to the developments in technology. Thanks to these enhancements, the only parts that are leftover to check on are the spark plugs and air filters. By replacing a clogged air filter, you can increase your vehicle’s acceleration by 11% – a significant improvement – according to the federal EPA and Department of Energy. However, that’s not all that is included in a tune up nowadays. Along with the replacement of spark plugs and air filters, your vehicle’s fuel, ignition and emissions systems will be tested to ensure that vacuum hoses, oxygen sensors and other important performance parts are all working properly. How do I know what tune ups I need and when? In today’s vehicle world, tune ups are often based on mileage. Following this general routine maintenance schedule will help you keep track of what you need and when. Every 3,000 miles: Replace oil Replace oil filter Inspect air filter – replace as needed Check and top off all fluids Check tire pressure (fill as needed) Every 7,500 miles: Replace wiper blades Every 15,000 miles: Replace fuel filter Replace cabin air filter Every 30,000 miles: Replace automatic transmission fluid Replace automatic transmission filter Flush cooling system Replace pcv valve (follow spark plug replacement interval) Replace spark plugs (doesn't include vehicles with platinum spark plugs) Fuel Injection and Carbon Clean Service Every 50,000 miles: Replace fluids for: Differentials Manual transmission Transfer case Power steering Brakes Every 60,000 miles: Replace pcv valve Replace spark plugs (includes vehicles with platinum spark plugs) Replace spark plug wires Replace timing belt (varies for each vehicle) At Borgman Ford our highly qualified technicians are here to provide exceptional service in a timely manner. From oil changes to transmission replacements and flushes, we are dedicated to maintaining top tier customer service, for both new and pre-owned car buyers! Allow our staff to demonstrate our commitment to excellence. Our Service Center Manager is Kirt Schrotenboer. He can be reached at 616-249-8854.

We all know someone who backseat drives, but there may be a solution to put EVERYONE at ease! Borgman Ford in Grand Rapids, MI is happy to be part of Ford’s newest driver-assist technology. Ford's Co-Pilot360 can not only boost the confidence of drivers, but also put backseat drivers at ease by lending support while navigating the road. This system will provide Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking and Blind Spot Information System that will also provide a traffic alert. These features will keep the drive in control while helping reduce collision risks and making the driver more equipped in certain driving situations. When Ford teamed up with sociologist, Dr. Jess Carbino, they discovered that backseat drivers can do more harm than good to the state of those inside the vehicle. Carbino stated, “For a lot of drivers, constantly getting advice from passengers is more than just annoying, it’s stressful. The Ford Co-Pilot360 helps encourage trust during the drive and can help create a more relaxed, collaborative atmosphere in the car.” The findings of this study actually contradict the common belief of technology interfering with human interaction. This technology will take the navigating burden away to allow more focus on enjoyable aspects of the car ride and relieve tension between driver and backseat driver. Chris Billman, Ford Co-Pilot360 engineering manager, said with a chuckle, “Certainly the intent of Ford Co-Pilot360 Technology was not to eliminate backseat driving. But hey, if we can help in that way too, that’s great!” When in the area, don’t forget to stop by Borgman Ford in Grand Rapids to check our our newest inventory of vehicles with the Co-Pilot360 navigation system! To see what we have in stock, check out our inventory online. Come see why we are the Best in the West! Vehicles with Co-Pilot360™: 2019 Fiesta 2018 Focus 2020 Fusion 2020 Mustang 2019 Taurus 2018 Ecosport 2019 Escape 2019 Transit Connect 2019 Edge 2019 Flex 2020 Explorer 2019 Expedition 2019 Ranger 2019 F-150 2019 Transit 2019 Super Duty

Would you like to help out your local school in a super easy way? Join us at Grandville High School on Saturday, September 14th, 2019 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and take part in Ford Drive 4 UR School! You’ll be helping the Grandville Band Boosters “keep the beat going on” by taking a Ford for a spin! The organization gives students the opportunity to grow through music by supporting transportation needs, upcoming concerts and trips, band camp, uniforms, the annual Grandville Marching Band Invitational, and more. Each test drive results in a $20 donation - up to $6,000 - let’s try to top it out! Ford launched the Drive 4 UR School program in 2007 to help raise funds for education. This allowed schools and their various programs to continue or expand their operations through participation with the community. To learn more about the program, visit forddrive4ur.com. We invite you to stop by and support the Grandville High School, and have some fun cruising around in a Brand New Ford Vehicle. We hope to see you there, and Go Dawgs! Address: Grandville High School 4700 Canal Ave. SW Grandville, MI 49418 Get Directions Here

Image by Joe Ross from Lansing, Michigan - 1968 Ford Mustang "Bullitt" display -- 2018 North American For all the Borgman Ford classic Mustang lovers in the Grand Rapids area, there is now a chance to own the iconic 1968 Ford Mustang GT driven by none other than the “King of Cool” himself, Steve McQueen! This car that was kept hidden for over 40 years and then reemerged in January 2018 at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit. Now, news is that the legendary Ford Mustang will be auctioned at Mecum, the world’s largest collector car auction, in January at Kissimmee 2020. McQueen’s Bullitt is now racing to the top as one of the most valuable American made cars ever sold at an auction. The legendary Mustang was one of two that filled the role in the film. It is known as the “hero” car and represents one the arguably best iconic car chase scenes in history. After the film concluded, it was thought to have been sold to a private buyer and lost in history. However, when celebrating the 50th anniversary of “Bullitt” just last year, the vintage Mustang made quite the memorable appearance. Thought by many as the most recognized and celebrated classic Mustang, this vehicle still remains a very unique and timeless elements from the film. The Mecum Monterey 2019 announced that the car’s offering will be on Jan. 2-12 Kissimmee 2020. For more information, click here. Don’t forget to stop by Borgman Ford in Grand Rapids to check our our newest inventory of Mustangs! To see what we have in stock, check out our inventory online. Come see why we are the Best in the West!

Borgman Ford challenges its customers in Grand Rapids and West Michigan to help Ford make a difference for the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation by purchasing a ticket to win a brand new 2020 Mustang Shelby GT500! Ford has been donating vehicles to the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation for nearly a decade and will now be donating a brand new custom 2020 Mustang Shelby® GT500® that is to be raffled on November 14. The profit gained from raffle ticket sales will go towards helping JDRF battle and find a cure for Type 1 diabetes. Ford plans on selling around 25,000 raffle tickets during this year’s fundraiser. The custom 2020 Mustang Shelby GT500 includes: One-of-one Venom metallic clearcoat ( a charcoal color with black painted over-the-top racing stripes) Carbon Fiber Track Package ( Carbon fiber wheels, Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires, rear seat-delete, Recaro® leather-trimmed seats, and a Mustang GT4 track wing) Dave Pericak, Ford director of enterprise product line management, said, “Building on the excitement around GT500 is a terrific way to help JDRF fund research and help find a cure for Type 1 diabetes. Not only does this raffle provide an opportunity to win the most powerful production Ford ever, it also speaks to how Ford strives to make people’s lives better.” There will be a first place and second place winner. The first place winner will drive home in a Venom Shelby GT500 while the second place winner will receive a VIP race experience for two that is all-inclusive to the 2020 Daytona 500. Tickets can be purchased here until November 10. Each ticket will be $10. The raffle will be held at the Ford Conference and Event Center, 1151 Village Road, Dearborn, Michigan on November 14. Winners do not need to be present to win. When in the area, don’t forget to stop by Borgman Ford in Grand Rapids to check our our newest inventory of Mustangs! To see what we have in stock, check out our inventory online. Come see why we are the Best in the West!

Borgman Ford in Grand Rapids, MI is excited to announce that the popular two-wheel-drive Ford Ranger can now be taken to the next level with a new FX2 Package! This package gives West Michigan shoppers the option of two-wheel-drive while enhancing the look the truck with rugged, off-road styling. Brian Bell, Ford Ranger marketing manager, said, “FX2 expands Ranger’s options for customers who want tough, off-road style with the functionality of a locking differential but don’t need four-wheel drive. This is another way our customers can personalize Ranger to match their lifestyle while getting a great value.” The FX2 Package drives on 17-inch or 18-inch off-road tires which gives the Ford Ranger an ever fiercer appearance combined with the two-wheel-drive truck. The Ranger FX2 Package even includes an off-road-tuned suspension for increased traction and performance off-road as well as an electronic-locking rear differential. The abundance of screens gives the driver an added bonus of experience by being able to see the real time of pitch, roll and yaw. The demand for customization regarding the Ford Ranger is at a continual increase. Two out of three customers go for the Sport Appearance Package, Chrome Appearance Package or STX Appearance Package, while the one selects FX4 Off-Road Package. Over half of the Ford Ranger customers are selecting the Trailer Tow Package. Chad Callander, Ford Ranger consumer marketing manager, said, “We’re seeing sales trends that tell us to grow Ranger’s capability and appearance options even further. The FX2 Package is a result of us listening to our customers and what they’re demanding from their trucks.” FX2 Package Offers: Trailer Tow Package with a 4-pin/7-pin wiring harness Class IV trailer hitch receiver FX4 Off-Road Package with an electronic locking rear differential Terrain Management System with Trail Control Truck buyers looking for a rugged and maneuverable midsize that is also affordable can count on the Ford Ranger. Built Ford Tough and continuing a legacy. Borgman Ford in Grand Rapids has been serving customers Fair and Square Deals since 1960. If you are shopping for a new Ford Ranger in West Michigan, head over to our lot today and ask one of our friendly sales associates for assistance. We'd be happy to show you all the new features and help you build the perfect truck for your budget and lifestyle. To see what we have in stock, check out our inventory online. Come see why we are the Best in the West!

Borgman Ford would like to welcome back the annual West Michigan Premiere Car Event, 28th Street Metro Cruise®! For 15 years now, Grand Rapids has hosted this hot rod show that brings in 275,000+ people almost every year. 16 miles of cool cars gathered between Cascade and Grandville on 28th Street for this two day event. As an added treat, the West Michigan Mustang Club will also be there showing off their best classic and newest model Mustangs! This year's event will take place on August 23 (4 p.m. - 10 p.m.) & 24 (9 a.m. - 9 p.m.). Take a trip to Metro Cruise at Rogers Plaza in Wyoming, MI, to enjoy what this show has to offer, such as: 340+ show cars along Collector Car Row 26 food vendors including 16 food trucks 5 top bands in West Michigan The Miss Metro Cruise® Finale competition The popular DYNO viewing area Freebies/coupons/drawings from our 32 sponsor vendors A kid’s coloring area And much more! Don’t miss your chance to be a part of the coolest car show in West Michigan!

Borgman Ford is excited to announce the celebration of Ford’s 25th anniversary of Woodward Dream Cruise with Mustang Alley Saturday, August 17th. The Metro Detroit cruise is considered the world’s largest one-day automotive event. Each year, people from all around come to enjoy the 50,000+ classic cars, street rods, custom, collector and even special interest vehicles. If you’re planning to head out to the Dream Cruise, be sure to check out the Ford displays: Mustang Alley | 9 Mile between Woodward Avenue and Bermuda Street, Ferndale Ford family fun zone | Pioneer Park, 4232 Parkway Drive, Royal Oak Full Ford Performance lineup display | Duggan’s Irish Pub, 31501 Woodward Ave., Royal Oak Ford trucks display | CVS, 30900 Woodward Ave., Royal Oak Bronco Club parking | Memorial Park, 31050 Woodward Ave., Royal Oak Ford Fund’s Driving Skills for Life display | Westborn Market, 27659 Woodward Ave., Berkley

The Mustang fans at Borgman Ford are super-excited to share a glimpse of the all-new, 2020 Shelby GT500! Borgman had already been serving Grand Rapids and West Michigan fair and square deals when the first Shelby Cobra roared onto the scene in 1962. Who knew that 57 years later, Ford would be unleashing its powerful 760-horsepower great-grand-daughter on Michigan Mustang fans. The brand new, powerful, and street legal Shelby Mustang GT500 embodies world-class muscle and powertrain technologies to perform at the supercar levels. It’s control strategies, advanced drive modes, and the 7-speed clutch transmission all deliver this car which performs more uniquely than any other domestic sports coupe. The Shelby’s 760-horsepower 5.2-liter V8 engine is by far the most supercharged, torque- and power-dense in the entire world. There is 625 ft.-lb. of torque pushed through a Tremec® TR-9070 DCT 7-speed dual-clutch transmission, it achieves 0-100-0 in 10.6 seconds which also gives thanks to the enormous front brakes of any domestic sports coupe (16.5-inch rotors) and the carbon fiber wheels. These are each encompassed in Ford Performance-spec Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires. Ford’s Performance chief program engineer, Ed Krenz, said, “The range of brute-force drag acceleration, seamless road shifts and amazingly smooth shifts on the track further highlights how the soul of the Shelby GT500 is elevated in our most advanced Mustang ever. Effortlessly handling the 760 horsepower is our segment-first Tremec dual-clutch transmission, with an advanced control system that enhances GT500’s five drive modes to deliver a driving experience once reserved only for exotic supercars.” The Dual-Clutch Transmission: When you apply 625 ft.-lb. of torque to the pavement, it requires a transmission and driveline that can do way more than just handling that power. While collaborating with Tremec, Ford’s Performance engineers were able to design a gearbox that offers full driving control with incredibly fast shifting. This offers better performance among a vast array of driving environments. The solution found by the team is the Tremec TR-9070 DCT 7-speed dual-clutch transmission. Pat Morgan, Ford Performance powertrain manager, said “In many ways, this is like having two transmissions in one. On one hand, it enables performance at the outer reaches of straight-line quickness with minimal torque interruption, yet provides an incredible amount of finesse and control in track environments for maximum stability and predictability at the limits of lateral acceleration.” “Contrary to popular belief, fast shifts do not always equate to better road performance. In every driving situation, we emulated what professional drivers do, whether it’s a smooth, precise heel-and-toe shift of a professional track driver or a much more forceful powershift like drag racers. We’ve designed the perfect shift every time.” said Morgan. Adding Some Character: The all-new 2020 Shelby GT500 will contain 5 drive modes that will in turn help the driver experience with a flick of the console mounted mode switch. In doing so, this takes the character of the car to total track master! Having more aggressive throttle responsiveness and gear selections, but also changing the behavior – stability control, antilock brake modulation, ride dampening and steering feel. In selecting to be either in track or drag mode, this will continue to change the personality of the Shelby. Gears will change to use “over-torque” shifts for consistent power delivery for the maximum quickness to straight-line. This shift is quite similar to powershifts that give an extra torque hit between upshifts. However, taking the Shelby GT500 into a turn will allow the transmission to compensate and then provide smooth, quick and seamless shifts that minimize driveline disturbances. “Every aspect of the Shelby GT500 driving experience changes with the mode – be that the throttle responsiveness and snap of the shifts you feel in the seat of your pants, or the ‘pop and burble’ of the exhaust in performance modes. It’s a full multisensory visceral experience,” said Morgan.

Looking for a way to get around more easily in the city? Spin, part of Ford Smart Mobility LLC, has just recently announced their plan for the newest electric scooter model. Starting this coming month, Spin’s latest generation scooter will be coming to the streets of many U.S. cities! Spin has made advancements in their safety, security and reliability with this new generation scooter. It is also considered a more sturdy product that gives an overall more safe, smooth, and comfortable experience to the users. This scooter will feature: Larger frame, strengthened mechanical structure, and a wider and longer platform More responsive braking system Bigger (10-inch) tubeless tires (better for rough terrain) High efficiency rear drive that improves accelerations and increases the uphill performance Custom security screws to help decrease vandalism Battery life enhanced (ride up to 37.5 miles on a full charge) Upgraded Spin authentication system Co-Founder and Chief Operating Officer Zaizhuang Cheng said, “In our testing of the next edition Spin scooter, we have seen a significant increase in utilization and our customers are taking more rides and traveling longer distances. We will continue to support the creation of more durable and robust scooters in order to meet the market demand, and provide our riders with a safe, smooth, affordable, and reliable ride.” The company also unveiled a new logo that will allow a new refreshing feel to come to life over all Spin’’s platforms. said Co-Founder and President Euwyn Poon states, “Our redesigned logo draws inspiration from the excitement and joy of riding Spin scooters, and takes a bold yet playful approach to design. Just as riders are able to adapt, react, and make plans at the spur of the moment, the logomark embodies a feeling of spontaneity and motion.” Spin will be coming to the streets of Michigan soon and no doubt will be the new way around!

Borgman Ford is grateful to be part of such an inspiring company that reaches out their hands to help others. Ford Warriors in Pink® and GoRide Health are combing forces to make sure that breast cancer patients are able to get to their treatments with ease. They will be offering complimentary rides for cancer patients and one companion to medical appointments throughout the rest of the year! Ford’s Warriors in Pink is dedicated to supporting those affected by breast cancer by helping them have better days. These rides are available in Southeast Michigan as well as the Greater Cincinnati, Cleveland, Dayton and Toledo areas. Eligible patients will be verified first through the Warriors in Pink and then receive service through GoRide Health which has professionally trained drives to ensure the patients’ safe travel and arrival. Diagnosed with breast cancer for the second time, Stephanie M. of Detroit was hit with the primary mobility question: How was she to get to and from her appointments after post-surgery? She didn’t have a way until she was connected to GoRide Health. GoRide Health uses specially upfitted Ford Transit vans to comfortably accommodate patients to get to where they need to go. Stephanie, who is a seven-year breast cancer survivor said, “It was a huge relief for me to have a service like GoRide Health help me travel to and from my appointments. It’s not just that I didn’t have to worry about driving myself; GoRide also relieved me from the mental stress of asking friends and family to take off work and drive me to treatment.” Starting today, GoRide Health and Ford Warriors in Pink will be offering unlimited rides for breast cancer patients like Stephanie. Anika Brown, chief marketing officer, GoRide Health said, “Transportation to treatment may seem like a small thing or ‘a given,’ but unfortunately, for many people it’s not. Our collaboration with Warriors in Pink gets right to the heart of GoRide Health's purpose: To make healthcare more accessible to those who need it most, and to do so with a service built around empathy and care. Through the Warriors in Pink collaboration we'll be able to remove at least one burden from patients and families – and we'll do it with compassion.” All ride expenses are covered by Ford Warriors in Pink. They will verify eligible rides via website and phone at 833-546-7433. The Pink Fund, Susan G. Komen, and Ford dealerships will share this program information with patients in need throughout eligible hospitals.

When you catch the travel bug, what’s your go-to solution? Imagine walking outside to a built-out Ford Transit—an on-wheels, glamping-style, miniature home on the road designed perfectly for your adventures. Ford can get you anything up to a Class C motorhome for the ultimate National Park exploration with the entire family, and everything down to a minimal home on the go. If you’re looking to purchase a motorhome or mobile accommodations, consider customizing a Ford Transit! Ford offers the greatest variety of configurations in the class. Our specialists at Borgman Ford are excited to help you achieve your dream on the road. The Orion Motorhome Upfit Selecting an Upfit: Your Customization is Unlimited While you could build our your own dream home on wheels, Ford has engineered through thoughtful considerations various motorhome upfits—your first decision is if you want to limit your build to the size of our large Transits and maintain the ease of low-profile driving, or if you’d like to go all-out with a camper body. Offering Transit, Class B and Class C motorhomes, these pre-built upfits can be tailored to whatever purpose or preference you have in mind.  Our custom created upfits range from our powerful EcoBoost Engine on a Ford Transit Chassis to a 3.2LI-5 Ford Diesel engine. Luxury features such as configurable storage, seating, and sleeping and LED lighting, mini fridges, and kitchenettes are standard in upfits. Options such as bike racks, solar systems, baths, convection ovens, and water filtration are just a request away. Whatever you’re looking for, we can tailor it. Click here for Ford's detailed brochure of the full range, recreational upfit options. The Wonder Motorhome The Always Included Accommodations and Features The Transit provides the comfort of a smaller vehicle and surpasses the performance of an RV. Convenient features such as easy maneuverability and driving dynamics, rain-sensing windshield wipers, rear-view camera, lane-sensing technology, and a side wind stabilization to combat unruly weather. On the performance side, the Built Ford Tough promise is safety first—our Transits feature AdvanceTrac with Roll Stability Control, 4-wheel Anti-Lock Disc Brakes, and all around airbags. Don’t worry, we’ve tested the toughness for the most extreme weather by inducing strenuous temperatures (from -40 to 120 degrees) and driving across proving roads and highways for thousands of miles. The Transit and your future glamping vehicle surpassed the Ford tough vehicle standards. Outfit Your Transit Whether you’re looking for a glamping style, minimalistic Transit buildout, a class B moderate motorhome, or full on RV style vehicle, consider the outfitting options available from various companies designed in partnership with Ford. If you’re ready to take the plunge and want to know what upfit is right for you, don’t hesitate to ask your service professional at Borgman Ford. Your Borgman Ford upfit specialists are eager to assist in your on-the-road lifestyle. Contact us today — we look forward to serving you!