Memorial Day Weekend is just around the corner, and if you were thinking about celebrating the unofficial start of summer with a family road trip, Borgman is here to help. Many families tow boats or campers up north for the weekend, and if you wanted to join their ranks there are a couple of things you’ll need to consider first:

1. How Heavy Is Your Trailer AND Your Load?
2. What Vehicle Will You Be Towing With?

Of course, there is more to towing than these two points. If you’ve never towed a trailer or RV before (or need a refresher,) check out our latest Borgman How To for driving and safety tips.

In this article, we’ll talk about what to look for in a New or Pre-Owned Towing Vehicle or upgrades you can make to your existing vehicle.

How Heavy Is Your Trailer?

How heavy your trailer or RV is will determine which vehicle you should be on the lookout for, so it’s worth figuring out what they weigh. Your trailer should have a curb weight marked on it somewhere or noted in the manual, and the same goes for your RV or camper. If you have a boat, it goes without saying that you’ll add that to the weight of the trailer. The same goes for all of the gear in your camper: tools, grills, the weight of the full water tank if you have one, and all the other things that all add up.

This is also a good time to make sure that the electronics and mechanical parts of the trailer still work. It’s worth doing a “dry run” and checking that brake lights, turn signals, and marker lights are all working when hooked up to your vehicle. Also, it’s worth going through hooking up the trailer to the vehicle so you know exactly what to do before you set out and identify any parts that need to be replaced. You can also check the trailer brakes now (if you have them) too.

What To Look For In A Tow Vehicle

Now that you know how much you need to tow, what kind of hitch you need, and if your wiring harness fits the trailer, now it’s time to bring that information to Borgman.

If you have an existing vehicle that can handle the load, adding extras (depending on the vehicle) like telescoping side mirrors, trailer cameras, upgraded hitches, and more can take some of the stress out of towing. Upgrading your axles and rear differential can possibly squeeze a few more pounds into your towing capacity, but it’s best to have that discussion with us next to your vehicle, as this is a case-by-case situation.

If you’re browsing for a new towing vehicle for the summer season, you’re coming armed with the knowledge of exactly what you need the vehicle to be capable of. In this situation, you have three options at Borgman right now.

First, you can browse our New Ford Inventory, which may or may not have what you need because of the current nationwide vehicle shortage.

Second, you can take a look at our Pre-Owned lot for late-model Ford Trucks and SUVs. There are plenty of good, solid towing vehicles in our selection and some serious deals to be had, so it’s definitely worth your time to check. All of our Pre-Owned Vehicles come with our Free B-Protected Warranty, so you can shop worry-free.

Lastly, if you’re willing to wait, you can specify the exact vehicle you need and Borgman will order it for you straight from the factory. You’ll be amazed at how many options and configurations there are to choose from, and the Borgman team is here to help you every step of the way. Since this option takes some extra time, we’ll give you an extra $500 for your trade-in! (If you go this route, you need to get in touch with us by May 31st, 2021.) If you’re looking for inspiration, take a look at this Towing Accessories Guide.

Shop New, Used, and Custom-Ordered Ford Towing Vehicles at Borgman Ford in Grand Rapids!

Check out these reasons to Buy From Borgman, review our Free B-Protected Warranty on All Used Vehicles, and Get In Touch With Us with any questions or to get started. Remember, if you see a better deal on a New Ford somewhere else, let us know and we’ll match or beat the price! Come to see why we’re the Best in the West!

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With the summer fast approaching, you might be dreaming up your next big adventure in West Michigan. Perhaps you’re looking for a vehicle that takes you off the beaten path, braving the mud, rocks, water, and sand. The New 2021 Ford Bronco Sport is up for the challenge and comes in a stylish yet aggressive package. But the Bronco Sport is a newcomer to the light ORV game: how does it stack up against the established Jeep Cherokee?

At Borgman, we felt that Jeep has run unopposed for far too long and the Bronco Sport doesn’t just give it a run for its money, the Jeep Cherokee struggles to keep up with the Bronco Sport. Both the 2021 Ford Bronco Sport and the 2021 Jeep Cherokee are little siblings of more capable off-roaders: the Ford Bronco and the Jeep Wrangler respectively. But that’s a showdown for a different day, as the Ford Bronco hasn’t quite arrived at Borgman yet. Compare the two side-by-side in our latest Borgman Head-To-Head and see why 2021 Ford Bronco Sport reigns king of the West Michigan wilderness.

Power & Towing

The 2021 Ford Bronco’s base engine is a 1.5L 3-cylinder EcoBoost (turbocharged) engine, producing 177 hp and 210 lb/ft of torque. Adventurers needing a little more oomph can upgrade to a 2.0L I-4 EcoSport with 245 hp and 275 lb/ft of torque. When properly equipped, the Bronco Sport can tow up to 3,500 pounds. The Bronco Sport provides all of this power while maintaining an EPA-Estimated 25 city and 28 highway miles per gallon too.

The Jeep Cherokee’s base engine is a 2.4L 4-cylinder with 180 hp and 171 lb/ft of torque. Like the Bronco Sport, you can upgrade to the 2.0L turbocharged engine, which produces 270 hp and 295 lb/ft of torque. The even bigger 3.2L V6 engine provides 271 hp and 239 lb/ft of torque. The Jeep Cherokee can tow up to 4,500 lb when properly equipped, though the trade-off is in fuel economy, producing 19 city and 26 highway miles per gallon based on EPA estimates.

Interior Features

Ford pulled out all of the stops for the Bronco Sport interior. Using an assortment of high-quality, touchable plastics, hard rubber, and in the higher trims, premium leather, give the Baby Bronco a sense of a seasoned adventure machine mixed with daily driver comfort and refinement. Enjoy all of the features you’re used to in this latest generation of Ford Vehicles, such as Ford Co-Pilot360, SYNC 3, FordPass Connect, and more, plus some new ones for off-roading. These include breadcrumb navigation for finding your way back in the wilderness, a trail view cam, best-in-class cargo space, and more.

By comparison, the Jeep Cherokee is starting to look a bit dated on the inside, despite sharing some features with the Bronco Sport. It has a 8.4″ touchscreen, panoramic moonroof, automatic parking, and other driver-assist features you’ll find in Ford Vehicles, but the materials used by Jeep here make what would be a luxe interior feel chintzy, something not reflected by its bigger price tag. Also of note, despite being the bigger and heavier of the two SUVs, the Jeep Cherokee has the least amount of cargo space.

Adventure-Readiness For Price

While the starting MSRP of the Ford Bronco Sport rests at $28,155, a fair amount more than the Jeep Cherokee’s $25,840, a fully decked-out Ford Bronco Sport Badlands Edition tops out at $34,155 compared to the Jeep’s equivalent Trailhawk, retailing for $36,250. There’s a reason for these prices: every 2021 Bronco Sport has standard all-wheel drive and other standard features that are not included on the Jeep Cherokee. You can upgrade Ford Bronco Sport to a twin-clutch, torque-vectoring rear axle with a locking differential if you wish too. The Cherokee Trailhawk only offers a rear differential locker: you’ll only be able to send power back to both rear wheels, not one or the other like the Bronco Sport.

If your adventures get rocky, the Ford Bronco Sport also has better clearance than the Jeep Cherokee and has an easier time clearing sharp inclines thanks to its lighter weight. The Bronco Sport is also highly customizable, letting you transform it to haul mountain bikes, kayaks, or even camp out on top!

Start Your Adventure at Borgman Ford in Grand Rapids, MI

While we need to wait just a little bit longer for the Ford Bronco 2 and 4-Door models, the new Bronco Sport may be just what you were looking for anyway. Take a look at our selection at Borgman today, or get in touch with us to order one just the way you like it. Helping you order your dream vehicle from specification to reality is just one of the many reasons we’ve been the Best in the West for over 60 years!

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Spring has arrived in West Michigan, and many are looking to hit the road out of Grand Rapids for fun weekends of exploration and relaxation. Whether you’re traveling down interstates or cross country, your shocks and struts make sure you don’t feel every single bump in the road, and even play a role in ensuring your vehicle doesn’t damage itself.

Like many other moving parts on your vehicle, shocks and struts have a lifespan and will eventually need to be replaced. In this article, we’ll explain the difference between shocks and struts, what they do, and when it’s time to have them replaced at the Borgman Service Center.

What Are Shocks and Struts, and What’s The Difference?

Both shocks and struts essentially do the same thing: absorb sudden movements created by bumps in the road. Where they are different is that a strut is a structural part of your suspension, and a shock is not.

Shock Absorbers or shocks are simple pistons with hydraulic fluid inside. When the wheel hits a bump, the fluid inside compresses through a small hole into another chamber, which takes the jarring, sudden movement and smooths it out. The excess energy converts to heat and radiates out into the atmosphere. When the wheel returns to its normal position, the oil is drawn back into the first chamber, smoothing out this movement too.

McPherson struts, coil-over springs, or simply “struts” are different in that they actually hold your vehicle up off the ground. Struts are also usually where your alignment is set, so they have a hand in your steering system too. Struts are typically found on the front wheels of vehicles for this reason. They are structural parts, and apart from their inner beam and huge spring, contain a replaceable shock cartridge so that when it wears out, you don’t have to replace the full assembly.

When Do I Need To Replace My Shocks or Struts?

Generally, you’ll need new shocks and strut cartridges every 50,000 miles or so, depending on how often you’re driving on dirt or poorly maintained roads.

The first thing you may notice is your ride is getting a lot bumpier, but if this is gradual you may not. However, when struts are nearing the end of their life, the symptoms can be more pronounced. You may feel your vehicle nose-dive when you brake or lift-off when you start moving. You may also find that it feels like driving a bowl of jelly when you exit the highway down a looped ramp.

Another sign that something is amiss are uneven wear patterns on your tires. The Borgman Team is good at spotting these during a tire rotation, and if we see it we’ll let you know.

Though this tip is something that’s really only practical on passenger cars, you can push down on the fender above a strut and see if the car “bounces” when you release it. Healthy struts will raise the car to its normal position and stop. Worn struts will allow the car to travel more.

Need New Shocks or Struts? Trust the Borgman Service Center in Grand Rapids!

If you’ve been noticing your vehicle handling strangely, making new noises, or just bumpier than normal, then head over to the Borgman Service Center today. We’ll make sure your vehicle is in tip-top shape for your spring wanderings around West Michigan.

Our friendly and highly knowledgeable staff is here to make sure you understand everything in your vehicle health report, and the function of the parts we need to replace. If you ever have any questions, we’re here to help. Check out our latest Service Coupons, then Schedule Your Appointment Online. Come see why we’re the Best in the West!

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With spring finally arriving in West Michigan, you might be looking for a New Truck to help you tackle your projects for the year, or for hauling boats, campers, or ATVs up North for vacation. To help you choose, Borgman is pitting the mighty Ford F-150 against its fiercest competitor: the 2021 Chevrolet Silverado. Both of these trucks are similar in many ways, but we found that the Ford F-150 crushes the Chevy in all the things that matter including engine options, towing & payload, and safety. Take a look at these two trucks side-by-side in our latest Borgman Head to Head!

Engine Options, Fuel Efficiency, and Towing

2021 Ford F-150

The 2021 Ford F-150 comes with six different engine options, allowing you to configure your truck to whatever your needs are. Included in these six options are a 3.0L Power Stroke diesel and the all-new3.5L EcoBoost Full Hybrid V6, making up to 430hp and 570lb-ft. of torque. The class-exclusive hybrid engine also tows up to 12,700 pounds, not far from the F-150’s maximum towing of 14,000 pounds with the 3.5L EcoBoost V6. That kind of power redefines hybrid.

Here are the engine options for the 2021 F-150:

• 3.3L V6: 290hp, 265lb-ft
• 2.7L V6: 325hp, 400lb-ft
• 5.0L V8: 400hp, 410lb-ft
• 3.5L V6: 400hp, 500lb-ft
• 3.0L V6, Diesel: 250hp, 440lb-ft
• 3.5L V6, Hybrid: 430hp, 570lb-ft

2021 Chevrolet Silverado

The Chevy Silverado has an impressive engine lineup as well, but they all seem to be a little down on power when compared to the F-150. Like the Ford F-150, it has a diesel offering with just a little more power. However, it doesn’t have the hybrid option the Ford F-150 does. When properly equipped and with the 6.2L V8, their largest engine offering, the 2021 Chevy Silverado can tow up to 13,400 pounds. This is just behind the Ford F-150.

Here’s the Chevrolet Silverado Engine Lineup:

• 4.3L V6: 285hp, 305lb-ft
• 5.3L V8: 355hp, 383lb-ft
• 2.7L I4: 310hp, 348lb-ft
• 6.2L V8: 420hp, 460lb-ft
• 3.0L I6, Diesel: 277hp, 460lb-ft

Interior Features

2021 Ford F-150

The interior of the 2021 Ford F-150 is just as high-tech as what’d you’d find under the hood. Ford designed the cab to be the best mobile office it could possibly be, with features including a large work surface on the center console, seats that fold flat to create a sleeping area, max-recline seats to create more storage, and more. You’ll also experience all the benefits of Ford’s SYNC 4, along with a larger screen, mobile WiFi HotSpot, and more.

2021 Chevrolet Silverado

By comparison, the Silverado’s interior is a bit more utilitarian. It does feature some of the same safety features as the Ford F-150 such as collision assist, automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and lane-keeping assist, but falls short in other areas where small details turn to big details like the lack of a work surface and a lesser infotainment system. However, the Chevy Silverado does include more of these features as standard than the Ford F-150.

Fuel-Economy

In this section, for the sake of simplicity, we’ll only compare two engines from each lineup.

2021 Ford F-150

With the base engine earning an EPA-Estimated 19mpg city and 25mpg highway, Ford leads the pack not just compared to the Silverado, but all other trucks in its class. With the addition of a turbocharger or more displacement in the larger sizes, these numbers go up or down as expected, but Ford still more often than not produces better fuel-economy numbers than the competition. The diesel offering is still competitive but not the absolute best: earning 21mpg city and 28mpg highway. Hybridized F-150s get about 25mpg city and highway, with slightly higher numbers without the 4×4 powertrain. The Silverado does not have a hybrid option.

2021 Chevrolet Silverado

According to EPA estimates, the 2021 Chevy Silverado earns about 19mpg city and 22mpg highway in it most efficient gasoline engine offering, putting it just a little behind the Ford F-150. If you’ll remember, with a similar amount of fuel, that the Ford F-150 produces more power so bear that in mind. What’s worth note here is the diesel engine in the Silverado: producing an EPA estimated 23mpg city and 33mpg highway, outpacing the F-150’s own diesel offering.

Overall Value & Final Verdict

Winner: 2021 Ford F-150

The 2021 Ford F-150 starts at $28,940, making it slightly more expensive than the Silverado. When trim levels and options are added, the price rises accordingly, but that’s where the capabilities of the F-150 truly shine. Best-in-class maximum towing of 14,000 pounds, class-exclusive hybrid engine, Ford’s powerful SYNC 4 infotainment system, plus extra work-friendly features like a built-in generator in the bed. While more features of the Silverado come standard, the quality of the Ford F-150’s features far outpaces the Silverado.

2021 Chevrolet Silverado

The 2021 Ford F-150 starts at $28,900, making it marginally less expensive than the F-150. More features shared between the Silverado and F-150 come standard, but other than the bed size, the numbers like fuel economy and max towing often come up short in a side-by-side comparison.

Find Your Built-Ford-Tough 2021 Ford F-150 at Borgman Ford in Grand Rapids

It was a close match in some respects, but we feel the Ford F-150 comes out on top in all the areas that matter. More engine options, best payload, best towing, numerous driver-assist and safety features we didn’t even mention, and an interior far more driver-centered than the rest. If you’d like to see the 2021 Ford F-150 for yourself, visit Borgman Ford in Grand Rapids today and go for a test drive! Our friendly and knowledgeable staff would be delighted to show you all of the latest features and help you build the perfect truck for your West Michigan adventures. With the largest selection of Ford F-Series trucks in West Michigan, there’s sure to be something here that’s perfect for you. If you’d like, our team will help you put your order in for an F-150 straight from Ford that’s truly yours. Take a look at our massive Ford F-150 inventory and come see why we’re the Best in the West!

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It looks like spring is on its way to West Michigan! Since folks are likely going to be doing a spring cleaning and “tune-up” of their vehicle, we thought this would be a good opportunity to talk about motor oil. We’re all familiar with the rule of thumb, “change your oil every 5,000 miles.” But if you work from home, you’re probably only taking short trips to the grocery store and not getting close to that many miles before you actually need to change your oil. In this post, we explain why changing your oil over time is just as important as with mileage, as well as why we don’t really need winter and summer blends anymore.

Why Changing Your Oil Every 6 Months Matters Too

As you use your motor oil, contaminants from the combustion process (that is, gasoline exploding in your cylinders) will start to build up in your oil. This is a good thing: it means that those contaminants, moisture, and carbon aren’t accumulating on your valves, pistons, and other places they shouldn’t be. One benefit of getting an oil change is flushing all of that stuff out.

Synthetic oil lasts much longer than conventional motor oil, but it still degrades and loses its lubricating properties as it’s used. So, if using motor oil and getting it hot degrades the oil, why does it also go bad after 6 months if you don’t drive it a lot? It seems like a paradox, but there’s another piece of the puzzle.

Something oil does when it gets up to operating temperature is evaporate water. Water gets into the engine through the air intake and other places, since there’s always some degree of moisture in the air. When the engine is hot, that water evaporates and is either whisked away into the exhaust or absorbed into the oil. If you aren’t driving your car much, condensation can build up in the engine.

If you aren’t driving very far, the oil doesn’t get hot enough to evaporate that water. Exposing the oil to moisture degrades the oil as much as running the engine hard for 5,000 miles. The solution is to flush all that stuff out with fresh oil every 5,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first. Thankfully, you don’t need to remember. We print both numbers on a sticker for you.

Why We Don’t Need Summer and Winter Oil Anymore

Way back in yesteryear, oil wasn’t as high-tech as it is today. Depending on how it was made, it could be really effective in the summer but turn to mayonnaise in the winter. Oil produced for winter wouldn’t do this but would be too thin in the summer to keep everything lubricated, and since it can’t shed its excess heat, start foaming.

Times have changed and with synthetic blends, it’s now possible to have a motor oil that does its job in all but the most extreme environments. Far more extreme than we see in West Michigan. At the Borgman Service Center, we use Motorcraft Synthetic Blend for our oil changes (unless something else is specified for your vehicle.) This high-quality motor oil meets all warranty requirements, is API Certified, and is manufactured with a high viscosity index.

Trust The Borgman Service Center for Your Regular Oil Changes

If you’re looking for a service center in West Michigan you can trust with the health of your vehicle, look no further than the Borgman Service Center in Grand Rapids.

The Motorcraft Motor Oil we use starts with premium-quality, synthetic/hydroprocessed base oils and features specially-designed performance additives that help minimize engine deposits and wear. This oil also protects against high-temperature oxidation and turbocharger deposits, low-temperature gelling, rust corrosion, and foaming. The friction-reducing technology provides superior wear protection and energy-conserving characteristics, which result in significant improvement in fuel economy too. That’s more money back in your pocket while protecting your engine.

If you have questions about the oil we use or have any other questions about our affordable “The Works” package, please feel free to Contact Us. If you’d like to schedule your vehicle for service, be sure to check our latest Coupons & Offers, then head over to our easy Online Scheduler. Come see why we’re the Best in the West!

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The All-Electric Ford Mustang Mach-E is an incredible machine, capable of jaw-dropping feats of speed, power, and endurance. However, with some West Michigan and Grand Rapids buyers, electric vehicles are an unknown element and they may have some anxiety about making the switch. With their fun and thrilling Mustang Mach-E vs. Everything campaign, Ford is seeking to prove that the all-electric SUV is up for any challenge West Michigan can muster and then some.

Take a look at these videos, where the Mustang Mach-E travels further than a 12-foot rocket, outruns a falling chandelier, charges faster than a Tesla coil, and more! Also below is an excerpt from a post on the Official Ford Media Center with links to all of the videos. If you want to see the Ford Mustang Mach-E for yourself, head over to Borgman Ford for a test drive! You can see our selection of 2021 Ford Mustang Mach-E SUVs here, and please feel free to Contact Us with any questions.

Challenge Accepted: Mustang Mach-E Takes On Gravity, Lightning, DNA, and More In New Science-Inspired Campaign

The campaign was developed by creative collaborator BBDO NY and 1stAveMachine directors, Aaron Duffy and Bob Partington, who are known for their technical approach to filmmaking. The films comprise the following:

Mustang Mach-E v. Gravity The torque in the 2021 all-electric Mustang Mach-E is powerful. But is it powerful enough to challenge the laws of gravity? See how the electric pony’s off-the-line performance fares against a falling chandelier.

Mustang Mach-E v. Rocket Science: The range of the 2021 all-electric Mustang Mach-E is impressive. But what does an impressive range look like? A 12-foot rocket helps visualize the EPA-estimated 300-mile range of the Mustang Mach-E Premium model with available extended-range battery and rear-wheel drive.

Mustang Mach-E v. Pit Crew: Over-the-air update capabilities allow the 2021 all-electric Mustang Mach-E to update from almost anywhere. But can they compete with a mobile pit crew harnessed to the bed of a truck? Only one way to find out.

Mustang Mach-E v. Lightning: The 2021 all-electric Mustang Mach-E can be charged superfast. But can it beat the charge of lightning generated from a 12-foot Tesla coil? Find out when the Mustang Mach-E’s impressive DC fast-charging capability goes head-to-head with lightning.

Mustang Mach-E v. DNA: The 2021 all-electric Mustang Mach-E is capable of learning the behaviors and adapting to the preferences of individual drivers. But is it smart enough to tell the difference between identical ones? See what happens when the personalized technology in Mustang Mach-E takes on twins.

Read the full article on Media.Ford.com.

Find Your All-Electric Ford Mustang Mach-E at Borgman Ford in Grand Rapids, MI

If you’re ready to make the switch to electric and say goodbye to the gas pump, or you still need some information and need an expert to talk to, head over to Borgman Ford in Grand Rapids today! Our staff are very knowledgeable about the 2021 Ford Mustang Mach-E and would be happy to help you with every question you may have.

Check out our Ford Mustang Mach-E Inventory and schedule a test drive today. Remember, if you see a better deal on one somewhere else, show us and we’ll match or beat the price. Our Price Match Guarantee is just one of the many reasons to Buy From Borgman, where customers are treated like family. Come see why we’re the Best in the West!

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Pothole season is on its way to West Michigan, and our guess is it’s going to be a doozy. This winter’s erratic pattern of freezing and thawing is fast-tracking the process that forms potholes, which as any seasoned Michigander knows, wreak havoc on your vehicle. The best way to avoid damage to your vehicle is to avoid potholes altogether, but sometimes that simply isn’t possible. In this article, we’ll go over how potholes form, what parts of your vehicle they could damage, and steps you can take to minimize their impact. Let’s get started!

Where Do Potholes Come From?

Potholes form when water seeps into cracks in the pavement during a thaw. Then, two things happen. First, the water can wash away the layer of sand or substrate below the pavement, which supports the asphalt and keeps it level. When the water freezes again, the water expands as it turns into ice, prying the cracks open and letting even more water in when there’s another thaw. Eventually, whether it’s the blade on a plow truck tearing it open or enough of the substrate has been washed away beneath, the pothole implodes leaving a hole in the road. What’s worse, these vary in depth from an inch to several, and if they’re full of water it’s impossible to tell.

So I Have No Choice But To Drive Through A Pothole. What Do I Do?

If you’re driving and spot a pothole (or a suspicious puddle in most cases) the best course of action is to safely navigate around it. However, it could be that there’s opposing traffic on a two-lane road, someone next to you, or simply no room to avoid it. If you’re vigilant, you can take a couple of steps to minimize or even eliminate damage to your wheels and suspension.

First, slow down as much as you safely can. The speed you’re going factors into how much force is suddenly exerted on your vehicle on impact. Remember, you’re hitting the side of the pothole opposite you and then climbing out. That means you’re going to want to drive through it as straight as possible, as this spreads out the impact into the width of the tire and not the metal rim. The rims can crack if they impact on an angle, and don’t absorb nearly as much shock as the rubber tire can. The less that gets through the initial impact, the less your suspension has to absorb.

Now that we’ve got the “why,” here’s a quick play-by-play of what to do:

1. Brake and square up with the pothole to go through it straight and as slowly as is safe.
2. Just before impact, release the brake. Hold the steering wheel firm to prevent the vehicle from being thrown to the side.
3. Wait for the rear wheel to clear the pothole and gently apply the gas.
4. Feel and listen for any new noises or changes in handling.

What Can Be Damaged On My Vehicle By A Pothole?

There isn’t a simple answer to this. Any number of things can be damaged ranging from splits in your tire to blown shocks or even a cracked windshield. Though in most cases where there’s severe damage, we end up replacing parts of the suspension. Some of these parts, such as the shocks and to a lesser extent the coil-over struts, need to be replaced over the life of your vehicle anyway. If the pothole damage is just to these parts, the repair is pretty simple. However, other parts like the tie rods and control arms can be bent or damaged too, and for those, the repairs will take a little longer.

If your vehicle suffers cosmetic damage, our Collision Center is here and will work tirelessly to restore your vehicle to pre-incident condition. That includes sourcing top-quality or genuine OEM parts, thoroughly inspecting your vehicle for hidden damage, to working with your insurance company on your behalf. We have courtesy vehicles available as well, so you don’t need to rely on renting a vehicle if your insurance doesn’t cover it.

In other cases, the damage may be very minor and all you need is a new tire or even just an alignment. Our technicians will look over your vehicle carefully and recommend what needs replacing now and what can wait until later. If you’ve noticed any strange handling or noises after driving through a pothole, Schedule An Appointment with the Borgman Service Center today and see why we’re the Best in the West!

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If you’ve ever wondered how the 2021 Ford Bronco Sport got so good at going over any West Michigan terrain, Ford has finally given their answer. “There once was a young colt raised by goats,” the first stated line of this new tv spot Ford has released as the beginning of a three-part Built Wild campaign. What’s more, we’re giving you a sneak peek of the other two commercials in this campaign – the last of which won’t premier until next month!

Take a look below to watch all three, and read more about how the Ford Bronco Sport’s unprecedented capabilities back up the bold claims made in these videos. You can also see the full article by visiting Media.Ford.com.

‘Raised By Goats’: The (Almost) True Story Behind The Power, Immense Capability Of All-New Ford Bronco Sport

So the story goes that a herd of goats came upon a colt in the mountains trapped under a rock. They rescue him, then raise him as their own, teaching him to navigate the craggy terrain and rough waters of the region. Sturdy, confident and now immensely capable, the horse transforms – into the adventure-ready, all-new Ford Bronco® Sport. That’s the crux of “Raised by Goats,” the first of three campaign spots produced by Wieden+Kennedy New York for Ford to celebrate the launch of its all-new Ford Bronco Sport, specifically highlighting its G.O.A.T. Modes™ equipped with up to seven terrain management modes helping drivers “go over any type of terrain.”

All three spots are under the umbrella of the “Built Wild™” campaign platform, with the first two focusing on the extreme capability and power of the Bronco Sport. All models feature an independent front and rear suspension engineered and performance-tested in demanding environments across North America. The suspension, complemented by the terrain management technologies, is optimized to help drivers confidently maintain vehicle composure while aggressively taking on rugged terrain.

Read more about the Bronco Sport by checking out the full article at Media.Ford.com.

Tackle the West Michigan Wilderness in a New Ford Bronco Sport

Looking to do some exploring of your own and want the option of going over any type of terrain? Visit Borgman Ford in Grand Rapids and check out our selection of All-New Ford Bronco Sport models! Our friendly and courteous sales staff will help you select a Bronco Sport that compliments your adventurous nature and your budget.

There are a number of reasons to do your shopping at Borgman, as detailed in our “Why Buy Borgman” page. Chiefly among these are our Price Match Guarantee and our Love It Guarantee. If you see the same vehicle anywhere else in West Michigan for less money, let us know and we’ll match or beat the price. Also, if you’re not loving your New Ford Vehicle after your purchase, let us know within 5 days or 500 miles and we’ll let you exchange it for a different vehicle.

Schedule a test drive today and see why we’re the Best in the West!

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Winter has officially arrived in West Michigan, and with it, slippery road conditions. If you’ve been “losing your grip” in the snow and ice, quality winter tires from the Borgman Service Center can help! We carry a wide selection and can give you a “Good, Better, Best” recommendation for your specific vehicle.

However, if you prefer to do further research on your new set of tires before you buy, we’ve put together the following article to help your search. We discuss what winter tires are made of, why they help you drive in the snow and ice, and what symbols and industry terms to look out for if you’re looking for a set. Take a look below, or contact the Borgman Service Center to schedule your appointment!

What Are Winter Tires Made Of, and How Do They Work?

Different tire companies will make different blends of rubber compounds, then assigning them with marketing terms to protect their trade secrets. However, winter tires all effectively solve the same problem: pliability in colder temperatures.

Think of chewing gum. On a hot day, it’s sticky and stretchy. Put it in the fridge and it becomes hard and not sticky at all. Tires, and the rubber they’re made of, work much the same way. In the warmer months, they get softer and can more easily form to the road, increasing friction. As the temperatures drop, they stiffen up, making them susceptible to splits and cracks, and they can’t form to the road and as a result, producing less friction.

All tires have their effective temperatures. Summer tires need to get warmer before they soften up, and winter tires stay soft at lower temperatures. All-season tires aim for a “middle-of-the-road” approach, and most months out of the year, they’re perfectly adequate. That is until we get one of West Michigan’s signature ice storms. Then, the added traction can be the difference between getting up that hill or stopping safely.

Some winter tires have two other tricks up their sleeve: added silica and tread patterns. Silica crystal added to the rubber give tires even more grip, like tiny cleats digging into the ice. Also, clever tread patterns trap a buildup of snow on the middle of the tire and whisk away moisture on the sides. Snow sticks to snow pretty well, so by harnessing this property you can use the snow on the ground for even more traction.

What Is The Meaning of Those Symbols on the Sidewall of the Tire?

If you’ve ever looked at the mountain and snowflake icons on the sides of winter tires and wonder what they mean, Borgman is here to demystify them. Seeing a mountain and snowflake means that the tire passed a traction test, but that doesn’t automatically mean it’s a winter tire. You could also see an “M+S” next to it, meaning that it is intended for moderate snowy conditions.

Here are the meanings of some other things you might see:

• Tire Type: Usually this has a “P” for “passenger vehicle.” Sometimes pickups and SUVs will have an “LT” for “light truck.”
• Tire Width: The measurement of the tire width (in millimeters) from sidewall to sidewall.
• Ratio: The height of the tire, measured in hundredths of the tire width.
• Construction: How the layers of rubber in the tire. “R” will mean radially and is the most common.
• Diameter: The measurement of the “donut hole” part of the tire.

Which Winter Tires Are Right For Me?

The Borgman Service Center has a pretty wide selection of performance winter tires that will suit the vast majority of drivers in West Michigan. As to which tire is best for you, we can only recommend you look at the literature and weigh the strengths and weaknesses of each, also bearing in mind your budget. Of course, if you need help choosing your new tires, the friendly and courteous staff at the Borgman Service Center will be happy to oblige. We’ll put together a brief list of tires that we feel will suit you, and answer any questions you may have.

Get in touch with us or use our easy Online Scheduler to plan your visit. Be sure to check out our latest Service Coupons as well. Come see why even after 60 years, we’re still the Best in the West!

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If you feel the fully-electric Ford Mustang Mach-E’s brisk 0-60mph in 5.8 seconds time isn’t quite fast enough for you, you’re not alone. Enthusiasts rejoice: Borgman Ford is pleased to announce that the Mustang Mach-E GT Performance Edition will be joining the lineup and arriving in West Michigan next summer!

The Ford Mustang Mach-E Performance Edition will feature a number of different improvements and enhancements, including molded seats with metallic stitching, 19″ painted Brembo brakes, other cosmetic and functional improvements, and most importantly, 0-60mph in 3.5 seconds.

You can read all about the new edition in these excerpts from an article posted to the Official Ford Media Center, then visit Borgman Ford today and reserve yours!

Mustang Mach-E GT Gets Upgrade With Performance Edition, Accelerates To 60 Mph In Targeted 3.5 Seconds

Targeting a 0-60 mph time of 3.5 seconds, Mustang Mach-E GT Performance Edition joins the Mustang Mach-E GT stable, making an already-fast electric pony even quicker.

Pumping out 480 horsepower (358 kilowatts) and 634 lb.-ft. of torque (860 newton-meters), Mustang Mach-E GT Performance Edition delivers more torque, grip and better handling by drawing more power from its battery pack and targets an EPA-estimated range of 235 miles.

“We already pushed the envelope by creating an electric vehicle with the pony badge, so it’s only natural that we push it even further,” said Darren Palmer, global director, battery electric vehicles, Ford Motor Company. “Mustang Mach-E GT Performance Edition not only gives you the added performance you expect from the GT name, but accentuates the thrill with the responsiveness of an all-electric powertrain.”

Read the full article on Media.Ford.com

Download Ford Mustang Mach-E Fact Sheet

See Ford Mustang Mach-E Tech Specs

Reserve Your Ford Mustang Mach-E at Borgman Ford in Grand Rapids, MI

Looking to be one of the first in West Michigan to cruise around in a New Ford Mustang Mach-E GT Performance Edition? Get in touch with us at Borgman Ford today and reserve yours now! That way, you’ll be guaranteed to have the electric SUV of your dreams when they finally arrive next year. Our friendly and highly knowledgeable staff will help you with the configuration, including colors, battery, available features, and more. Our customer service has set us apart for over 60 years. Come see why we’re the Best in the West!

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