With Labor Day bringing about the unofficial end of summer, it’s worth thinking about your vehicle’s performance in wetter weather and even ice. A key component for keeping you safe in slippery conditions is your Anti-Lock Braking System, or ABS for short. If yours hasn’t been checked in a while or worse, your ABS light has been on for months, beat the pre-winter crowd and visit Borgman Service today!

As anyone who drove during the 70s will tell you, ABS was a miraculous invention. Instead of “pumping the brakes” during a skid, you simply hold the pedal down and a complex system of pressurized fluid does the rest. When it was first introduced, the goal was to mimic what a skilled driver would do when the wheels lock up under heavy braking. Now, the system performs all sorts of functions, including altering the front/rear brake bias, improving handling, improving vehicle stability, traction control, electronic brake-force distribution, and even emergency brake assist.

In this article, we’ll briefly describe how this system works, how often it needs service, and what to look out for if the system starts to fail.

How Anti-Lock Braking Systems Work

As Anti-Lock Braking Systems became more widespread and sophisticated, automakers found that they outperform even professional drivers. In brief, here’s the problem that ABS solves:

If the road is slippery and/or the wheel overcomes the friction of the road and starts spinning freely, you not only lose the ability to easily stop but your steering is impacted as well. In its most basic form, ABS course-corrects for both of these issues.

Here’s how it works. Within the ABS system, there are four main components: speed sensors, a pump, a controller, and a series of valves. As a wheel starts to “lock up,” the speed sensors send a signal to the controller. This is the computer that orchestrates the ABS process. Then, the valves spring into action, allowing or restricting the flow of brake fluid to the four calipers. If pressure is let off but is again needed, the pump will pressurize the fluid. The computer will take in the variables from the speed sensors and use the valves and pump to return the four signals to the same value, meaning that the wheels are all spinning at the same speed.

When the ABS is on, you’ll feel a pulsing through the brake pedal. This comes from the valve’s opening and closing action and just means that the ABS is doing its job. This is why it’s important NOT to pump the brakes in slippery conditions, as the controller has to start over every time you release the pedal.

What Happens If The ABS System Starts To Fail?

If you notice screeching or grinding when you bring the vehicle to a stop, or you notice reduced brake performance or “shaking” when you slow down, your brake pads and rotors are likely the culprits. You’ll still need to make an appointment at the Borgman Service Center, but your ABS system likely will not need service.

If your ABS light comes on, this usually means that the controller has detected a faulty speed sensor, a fault within one of the valves, the pump, or a software issue within the controller itself. If it is blinking, that means that the system isn’t functioning and needs service immediately. Hopefully, this is what alerts you to an issue, because the main symptom would be the wheels locking under heavy braking. This comes with limited steering and can be a dangerous situation if you’re not expecting the fault.

If you don’t have leaks in your brake fluid lines, an ABS light usually comes on if you have a faulty speed sensor, which is not a difficult repair. Even if you have no problems, we recommend having the system looked over periodically to make sure there are no slow leaks or fraying wiring. Our certified technicians will also be able to detect any anomalies by looking at your vehicle’s onboard diagnostics.

Resolve ABS Issues at the Borgman Service Center in Grand Rapids, MI

If you’re seeing an ABS light come on, even periodically, or have other concerns about your vehicle’s braking system, trust the experts at the Borgman Service Center to keep you moving. Our team has been helping West Michigan for decades, and we pride ourselves on outstanding customer service.

During your appointment, our friendly and knowledgeable team will ensure that all of your questions are answered and that the work being done to your vehicle is explained in plain speech. To get started, use our Easy Online Scheduler to make your appointment, and don’t forget to check out the latest Service Coupons. Come see why we’re the Best in the West!

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Five Exciting Road Trip Destinations Across Michigan

So you’ve had your oil changed, tires checked and rotated, battery tested, fluids topped off, and everything looked over on your vehicle. Now all that’s left is to decide where to go. If you’re chomping at the bit to get out of town for a weekend we’ve put together a list of some exciting destinations to go visit this summer.

Whether you’re traveling with a camper, a roof rack, mountain bikes, or just what will fit in the trunk, there’s a place you’ll enjoy. The best part is all the scenery along the way too. If having your vehicle checked by experts is still on your to-do list, Borgman is here to make sure you and your traveling companions get there safely. Use our easy Online Scheduler to make an appointment, then check out these fun destinations all over Michigan. Planning a long weekend? String some of these together for the ultimate Michigan road trip!

Kirk Park: 40 Minute Drive from Grand Rapids

Though 40 minutes down Lake Michigan Drive might not meet everyone’s criteria for a road trip, we’re including it anyway as it’s a great spot to enjoy the big lake without trekking across the whole state. Located in West Olive near Hiawatha Forest, you’re never far from civilization in case you forget the sunblock. Stretch out on the beach, take a dip in the lake, or explore woodland trails. Best of all, this is a great place for your dog to enjoy the beach too! The shorter travel time and dedicated off-leash areas ensure your furry pal will have lots of fun on this summer trip.

Pere Marquette River: 75 Minute Drive from Grand Rapids

Looking to just spend a day on a river? Head up north to the Pere Marquette River, flowing from the Baldwin, MI area all the way to the big lake at Ludington. Enjoy the views of the Huron Manistee National Forest as you float down on tubes or paddling a canoe. You can bring your own watercraft too like kayaks or rafts, but you will need to get a (very affordable) permit from Baldwin Canoe first. They’ll even move your car for you so it’s waiting downriver when you’re done for the day! If you want to make your day trip an overnight affair, there are plenty of dedicated campgrounds along the river.

Silver Lake Sand Dunes: 90 Minute Drive from Grand Rapids

A relatively short distance from Grand Rapids, the Silver Lake Sand Dunes has plenty to do whether you plan to stay the day or stay the night. This 2,000-acre expanse of dunes separates Lake Michigan from Sand Lake, and the views are incredible. Hike the dunes on foot, or go on a buggy tour. You can rent an ORV to tackle the dunes yourself, or bring your own – the perfect playground for the Ford Bronco!

If you’re planning on staying the night, the campgrounds here offer plenty of amenities like power, public restrooms, and RV hookups, but if that’s not your speed you can always stay at one of the lakeside hotels. Renting an RV for the weekend is an option too. Silver Lake offers a great balance of enjoying the great outdoors and keeping some comforts of home, making it ideal for family camping trips.

Tahquamenon Falls: 5 Hour Drive from Grand Rapids

Dwarfed only by Niagara Falls, Tahquamenon Falls are the second-largest falls east of the Mississippi River, with an average flow of 7,000 gallons per second up to 40,000 during peak season. The locals call them “Root Beer Falls,” referring to the mesmerizing copper color of the water and the white foam as they come crashing down.

Situated in the Northern Upper Peninsula, Tahquamenon Falls is one of Michigan’s most beautiful natural destinations. Just a little west of Paradise, MI, the drive here is roughly 5 hours from Grand Rapids. Once here, there’s ample parking at both the upper and lower falls. We recommend starting at the Upper Falls as this is where you’ll find food, drinks, ice cream, gifts, and occasionally live music. Don’t skip the lower falls though, here you’ll find areas to wade into the water, take a boat tour, rent your own canoe, and more!

For adventurous types, you can hike the scenic 9.6 mile out-and-back trail along the river to the upper falls, but be aware: this is a moderately difficult trail and we recommend bringing plenty of water and a first aid kit just in case. Consult with the staff here if you have any questions – they’ll know best. If you’re up for it, the hike is well worth the experience.

Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore: 6 Hour Drive from Grand Rapids

For true Michigan adventurers, the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore is more than likely on their radar. An expansive stretch of rugged trails, cozy campgrounds, hidden beaches, and picturesque sandstone cliffs, this lakeshore is a hiker’s dream. Lake Superior’s raw power has shaped this stretch of coastline into a gorgeous work of art, and though it’s along the northern edge of the U.P., it’s not as long of a drive out here as you might think.

If you have a roof rack, bring the kayaks along and take in the sights along the coastline or go on one of the boat tours, then stay the night at one of the many campgrounds throughout. The famous Au Sable Lighthouse lies at the northeastern end of the region too! However, camping here is a little spartan, so you may want to make arrangements if you need RV hookups or don’t have experience treating your own drinking water. Don’t let that deter you from experiencing some of Michigan’s most breathtaking views, all it takes is a little planning!

Get Your Vehicle Ready for Summer Fun in Michigan

Staying up to date on your vehicle’s maintenance is key to enjoying your summer trips without delays, so make sure your vehicle is ready for adventure at the Borgman Service Center! Our highly experienced team will go over every inch of your vehicle to make sure you spend your road trip enjoying the scenery and that everyone arrives safely.

Use our Online Scheduler to make an appointment, then head over to our Specials Page for the latest service coupons. If you have questions about our services or about your vehicle, please feel free to Contact Us. Come see why Borgman is still the Best in the West after 60 years!

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Why Order With Borgman to Stay Ahead of the Curve

We’ve kept West Michigan moving for more than 60 years now, and we’re here to keep YOU moving despite the aftermath of the global pandemic and supply chain interruptions.

If you want a new ride in 2021, our team of professionals will do everything in our power to get you exactly what you want, and exactly how you want it. We just need to work ahead on the “when.”

This article will update you on the shortage and give you tips for staying ahead of the curve by ordering the Ford you want and enlisting the help of our sales professionals to make the process easy. The BONUS is we’ll give you an extra $1,000*! We’ll also explain how our “love it” guarantee will allow you to skip the deal if you change your mind and decide to settle for something in stock. No strings – fully refundable deposits. What’s not to love?

Our Kingdom for a Chip!

If you haven’t been following the news, the automotive industry – including Ford – is suffering from inventory shipment delays largely due to a computer chip shortage that began earlier this year. Foundry companies that make computer chips had, while automotive sector demand was down, taken the sudden “excess capacity” on their chip lines and turned it elsewhere. Without the dedicated resources formerly available, automotive manufacturers found that they faced a supply chain shortage as demand began to surge. In Ford’s case, this shortage is behind the temporary shuttering of the two F-150 and Bronco production lines.

What Are My Options?

We want to help you find your perfect vehicle as fast as possible, so there are a few options.

• Custom Order your vehicle. This is the best strategy because we’ll help make sure you’re staying ahead of the curve by covering you with our Love It Guarantee – releasing you from your order if you change your mind in favor of an in-stock vehicle that arrives in the meantime. We’ll give you an extra $1,000 incentive*. All deposits are 100% refundable!
• Explore our selection of Late Model Pre-Owned Fords. We have grown our 12 acres of vehicles to become one of the largest pre-owned vehicle centers in Grand Rapids. Check out the hundreds of late-model options ready to roll!

Advantages of Custom Ordering

By custom ordering with Borgman, you get the chance to put all of our sales team’s knowledge at your disposal to select the best, and most cost-effective, features on your vehicle. We’ll work with you to help you specify your perfect trim level and options package. During the inventory shortage, we’re also offering an extra $1,000* for all customers who custom order their vehicle.

While we can’t guarantee the arrival date of your new ride due to current manufacturing conditions, we figure the extra $1,000 will help you enjoy your wait time with some fine dining, Michigan Adventures, or other summer fun!

Here are a few additional tips on custom ordering your next vehicle:

• Decide what you really want: The whole point of custom ordering a new car is to revel in a sense of personalization, so you need to figure out not only what color and trim level your vehicle will be but how you want it equipped. If you’re shopping for Ford F-150, for example, there is a laundry list of options and trim levels to consider. Come to the lot for a tour of different features and options and test-drive similar vehicles to help develop your sense of priorities. Talk to our pros who know not only which options and trims are the most popular, but which ones retain their resale value!

Once you’ve ordered your new ride:

Our sales consultants will keep you up to date on the progress of your build.

Have questions? Talk to us!

*Excludes orders on Ford F-Series Super Duty Trucks, Ford Bronco Models, and Ford Transit Models.

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Summer officially arrives later this month, but that hasn’t stopped West Michiganders from hitting the road and enjoying the warm weather. Before you set out though, there are some things you should make sure are in good working order first.

Today, we’ve decided to dive past obvious things you should check like your tires, air filters, and motor oil, favoring oft-overlooked systems that you may not necessarily think to inspect unless there’s a problem. An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure, after all.

Battery

Auto batteries can “wilt” in the summer heat if they’re getting on in years, but not usually all of a sudden. If you’re having trouble getting your car started and it’s been 4-5 years since you last replaced it, it’s time for a new battery. If your battery is newer, it might just be corrosion on the terminals – an easy fix for the Borgman Service Team or even you if you’re careful and handy with a wrench.

Alternator

Your battery provides the electricity to start your engine, and your alternator keeps it running. It does this by using power the engine’s serpentine belt to turn a small generator, which produces electricity for the spark plugs. If there’s no spark, your engine won’t run. If your engine stalled and then you found that the battery was dead when you tried to restart it, this is the likely culprit. A worn-out alternator can leave you stranded, so it’s worth having it checked every now and then.

Spark Plugs & Wires

Spark plugs and their wires are essential to engine operation. These are durable components, but they can wear out. Depending on your vehicle, they need to be replaced around every 60,000 miles or so – some varieties can live longer, others will need to be replaced more often. If you have an issue with your vehicle “running rich,” which means that too much fuel is being injected into the cylinders, your plugs will be the first part to go when the issues start to compound.

Air Conditioning System

If your vehicle’s air conditioner isn’t blowing freezing cold air when it’s all the way up, it may be time to have it serviced. This could be as simple as replacing the cabin air filter, it could also mean your compressor is on its way out or you have a refrigerant leak. Refrigerant leaks are an environmental hazard, so don’t wait if you notice a drop in efficiency.

Transmission Fluid

Though manufacturers vary wildly on this number, Borgman has found that transmission fluid needs to be changed around every 30,000 miles for optimal vehicle health. Your automatic transmission is a very complex and sensitive piece of machinery, so any contaminants or improper level of fluid inside can lead to overheating issues or permanent damage. This is something you especially want to keep an eye on if you’re going to be towing things like boats or campers all summer.

Fuel Filter

Sometimes dirt or contaminants get into the gasoline you buy. Luckily, all vehicles are equipped with a fuel filter to keep these things out of your lines. As is the case with all filters, they eventually will need replacing. We recommend having it changed every 60,000 miles or so, but a clogged filter could be the culprit (and easy fix) if you have problems getting your vehicle started, rough idle, struggling at low speeds, or stalling out.

Complete Vehicle Maintenance & Repair at the Borgman Service Center in Grand Rapids, MI

If you’re planning all sorts of adventures this summer, it’s worth having your vehicle looked over at Borgman before you set out. Catching worn components or aging fluids before heading out ensures that your weekend is full of fun. Our experts will go over your ride top to bottom and bring any relevant issues to your attention. We’ll make sure you understand what the issue is so you can make an educated decision about your vehicle.

Need to schedule an appointment? It’s easy! Simply use our Online Scheduler Here, then head over to our Service Specials for coupons – saving you money on services you need. Come see why we’re the Best in the West!

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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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