Grand Rapids has already seen its first snowfall even before the official start of winter. Though it was short-lived, there will be plenty more to follow before spring arrives in West Michigan. Therefore, making sure your vehicle’s heater is in good working order makes the difference between a comfortable winter, or bundling up every time you go for a drive. Not to mention, you’d have difficulty clearing the windshield every morning!

This article briefly explains how your vehicle’s heater works, plus some common issues within its systems that cause your heater to stop blowing warm air.

How Your Vehicle’s Heater Works: In A Nutshell

Ever wonder how your vehicle makes the heat that comes out of the vents? If you’re familiar with how radiators work, it’s quite simple.

When your engine is running, it produces heat. So much of it in fact that if the heat isn’t released, the engine will warp and damage itself. That’s why you have a radiator and coolant. The coolant is pumped through a series of hoses that absorb the heat and as it passes through the wound-up pipes of the radiator, a fan cools the liquid coolant and blows it out the front grille.

However, there is a smaller radiator toward the back of the engine called the heater core, which does the same thing but the heat is sucked out of the engine bay and blown into the cabin with fans.

Why Isn’t My Heater Blowing Warm Air Anymore?

If your heater isn’t working anymore, there could be any number of reasons. Rest assured that the highly-trained and friendly technicians at the Borgman Service Center will get to the bottom of it, but here are a few common causes.

Your Coolant Levels Are Low

As we explained above, coolant passing through the heater core is what supplies the heat to the cabin of your vehicle. If your coolant level is low, it could be that you have a leak somewhere or your engine needs a new gasket. If this is the case, coolant is being allowed to mix with the engine oil and is burning up with the gasoline. You might notice thick, white, sweet-smelling smoke from your tailpipe if this is the case.

Coolant can degrade over time, but if you’re filling the coolant reservoir often, it is a critical issue that needs to be addressed by the Borgman Service Center as soon as possible.

It Could Be An Issue With The Heater Core Itself

If your coolant level is fine, there might be a clog within the heater core’s tubes. A flush might resolve the issue, but replacing the heater core can be an expensive repair.

If your heater core is going out, you might notice a fog, or a sweet, almost fruity smell coming from the vents. Other symptoms include the engine overheating or unexplained coolant loss.

Alternatively, a faulty thermostat could be causing the cooling system to not switch lines and supply the heater core with hot coolant. Luckily, the thermostat is a relatively inexpensive fix.

It Could Also Be A Problem With Your Controls

If your temperature-selector, whether analog or digital, isn’t getting the signal from the dial to your vehicle, then you won’t get any hot air. Or, you might only get hot air when you don’t want it – such as during the summer.

This can be caused by debris gumming up the inner-workings of the dial or some fault within your head unit. If you suspect this might be the case, let us know and our technicians will look into it.

Enjoy A Warm, Comfortable Winter with the Borgman Service Center in Grand Rapids, MI

If your heater isn’t blowing hot air like it used to, schedule an appointment today and get back to driving safely and comfortably in the cold weather. Your heater does keep you warm, but it also keeps your windshield clear of ice and fog, so issues with your heater pose safety concerns as well.

Our friendly and knowledgeable staff are here to help you with all of your automotive needs. Use our easy Online Appointment Scheduler to plan your visit or head over to our Service Specials for the latest offers. Come see why we’re the Best in the West!

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Borgman is happy to announce that Ford Is introducing a new feature for West Michigan drivers: Active Drive Assist. This feature, often thought of as a premium feature of upscale, leading-edge vehicles at the top of the market, is beginning to become more mainstream thanks to Ford’s ongoing research into autonomous vehicles. Just as Henry Ford made the automobile accessible to the masses, Ford is taking the next step in mobility.

This article from the Official Ford Media Center tells more, including how it works, how much it costs to add it to the upcoming Ford F-150 and Mustang Mach-E, and why Ford feels this is an important step for the industry.

Ford Advancing Hands-Free Driver Assist Technology And Making It More Mainstream With F-150, Mustang Mach-E

Henry Ford helped millions of people lay hands on their first automobiles beginning more than 117 years ago. Today, his company is helping many more people take their hands off steering wheels by applying the same approach to democratizing technology to Ford’s state-of-the-art Active Drive Assist hands-free driver assist innovation.

Ford developed Active Drive Assist based on advanced computing of camera and radar sensing technologies to provide real-time hands-free driving opportunities. The technology also enables expanded hands-free driving zones in the future based on system and customer patterns. 

The advanced new driver assist feature will arrive first on 2021 F-150 and 2021 Mustang Mach-E, included as standard on certain models or as relatively affordable option on others, with both vehicles becoming available to customers in late 2020. Ford expects to sell more than 100,000 F-150 and Mustang Mach-E equipped with Active Drive Assist technology hardware in their first year of alone based on company sales and take-rate projections.

“As breakthroughs in new technology allow us to help reduce the stress of long highway drives, it’s important to make sure these capabilities can be enjoyed by the largest spread of people possible,” said Hau Thai-Tang, chief product platform and operations officer, Ford Motor Company. “Active Drive Assist can help improve the driving experience while ensuring people remain aware and fully in control, all for a price unmatched by our competitors – a commitment to affordable innovations that has driven us since Henry Ford put the world on wheels.”

To keep reading, visit Media.Ford.com.

Shop New Fords with Advanced Features at Borgman Ford in Grand Rapids, MI

If you’re searching for a new vehicle in West Michigan and having all the latest features is important to you, visit Borgman Ford in Grand Rapids MI today! Our friendly and knowledgeable staff are well-versed in all the latest tech inside Ford Vehicles and would be happy to show you how it all works and improves your driving experience. To get started, check out our huge online Ford Inventory then use the buttons to schedule your test drive and work out your deal from the comfort of your home. You’ll always have access to live help from our staff too.

See these Six Key Reasons to buy from us, learn more about our Fair Trade Deals, and come to see why we’re the Best in the West!

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The holidays are fast approaching, meaning many of us will be traveling across West Michigan to see loved ones. Given the time of year, there’s a chance you may drive through some of West Michigan’s famous winter weather.

Earlier in the season, West Michigan is prone to lake-effect snowstorms, which come on suddenly and can deposit up to a foot or more of precipitation. If you’re out driving during one of these storms, preparedness is key for arriving safely. In this Borgman How-To, we’ll give you some pointers on preparing your vehicle for the trip.

Checking Your Tires

We know it seems like we mention this in every “vehicle check” post we do, but that’s because your tires are so important for vehicle safety. They are your sole contact with the road, and play a role in traction, steering, and stopping. They should be free of cracks, worn patches, and their tread depth should pass the “penny test” before you set out. Crouch down and put a penny with the top of Abraham Lincoln’s head pointing down into the tread. If the top of his head is covered when looking at it flat-on, your tires still have enough tread.

Making sure your tires are properly inflated is just as important. There should be a sticker in your driver’s side door well that states how much air you should keep in your tires, but if you’re not sure, 33 pounds per square inch (psi) is fairly common. This number should also appear in your owner’s manual.

Remember to check the condition of your spare tire as well.

If your tires don’t pass the “penny test” or you’re noticing uneven wear, cracks, leaks, or bulges, schedule an appointment with the Borgman Service Center today and ask about our current rebates and specials on name-brand tires.

Check All Of Your Lights

Though it’s the law to ensure all of your lights are in working order before driving, we mention it because it’s important. Making sure you have a clear view of the road in front of you is a good thing even in clear conditions, but making sure you’re visible to other drivers is equally important. 

Your owners manual will have detailed instructions about how to change your headlights, turn signals, running lights, and taillights, as well as which bulbs to use for each. However, if you don’t feel comfortable taking apart these assemblies or are short on time, we’ll be happy to change them for you.

Check The Condition of Your Battery

Your vehicle’s battery can suddenly stop holding a charge in the cold weather. The rule of thumb is to replace your battery every five years. If your battery has ever been depleted, the need could arise sooner.

When your car has trouble starting in the cold, sometimes it’s just because of built-up corrosion on the terminals. You can clean this yourself by disconnecting the battery and using baking soda and an old toothbrush. Disconnect the negative first, then the positive, reconnect the positive first, then the negative. If you’re uncomfortable doing this, or you just want to see if your battery is going faulty, we’d be happy to help. 

Construct A Roadside Emergency Kit

Putting together a kit for use in emergencies and storing it in your vehicle grants peace of mind, and is something you hope you never need but don’t want to be caught without.

What you keep in there is up to you, as you can get as elaborate as you want with them. However, we recommend the following items as a bare minimum, with some items added for the winter months.

• First Aid Kit. You can usually find these preassembled at big box grocery stores and they’re generally not expensive.
• Roadside Hazard Signs. These have replaced road flares and are covered in reflective material to alert other drivers.
• Flashlights and Batteries. Keep a flashlight and a fresh pack of batteries in your kit as well, but don’t store the batteries in the flashlight as they will leak and corrode over time.
• Gloves, Blanket, Hats, Socks. Having warm winter clothing in the back can be a big help if your heater is not operational. You can supplement these with space blankets and instant hand warmers.
• Clay Cat Litter and a Small Shovel. These can help you get traction if you’re stuck in snow or ice. Use the shovel to clear the tires and bottom of the vehicle as best as you can, then sprinkle the cat litter to make a track your tires can grab onto. Since the litter is just being used for traction, the cheap non-clumping stuff works just fine.
• Strong Rope or Tow Straps. These can be used by another vehicle to pull your vehicle out of a ditch or a snowbank.
• Jumper Cables. These can be used to help your vehicle start if your battery dies. Having your own means you don’t need to depend on a stranger having some.
• Foam Tire Sealant. While this stuff can get you home in a pinch, it’s not a permanent fix. Be sure to let us know you used it when you come in to get your tire patched or replaced.
• Other Misc Items. These might be overkill, but if you feel more comfortable being prepared for anything, consider items like weatherproof matches, a multi-tool with a knife, cord, a compass, paper maps, a rain poncho, protein bars, and other survival gear. 

Get Your Vehicle Ready for Winter Road Trips at Borgman Ford in Grand Rapids, MI

We hope this list helps you make sure your vehicle is ready for travel across West Michigan this holiday season. If you discover any potential issues with your vehicle, know that the Borgman Service Center is here to help. Our expert technicians will look over your vehicle and make sure all of your maintenance and fluids are up to standard when you get The Works package, and we’ll happily answer any questions you may have about your vehicle.

You can use our easy Online Scheduler to plan your visit, Contact Our Service Department with any questions, or check out our latest Service Specials. We hope you drive safely this winter and remember we’re here for all of your vehicle needs. Come see why we’re the Best in the West!

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Calling all adventurers in West Michigan! Borgman Ford is pleased to announce that after fan feedback, Ford has decided to expand the New Ford Bronco Sasquatch Package to include an optional 7-speed manual transmission! This upgrade will be available for both 2 and 4-door models and marks the first time a vehicle in this class will support a 7-speed manual. 

Fans have already been excited about the New Ford Bronco Sasquatch Package: aptly-named for its adventure-readiness. The package includes class-first 35-inch Goodyear mud-terrain tires, 17-inch beadlock-capable wheels, Dana front and rear electronic locking axles, and high-clearance suspension. This suspension features a wider track (by almost two inches,) position-sensitive Bilstein shocks, and wider fender flares.

You can read more about the Ford Bronco Sasquatch Package in an article from the Official Ford Media Center. Take a look at some excerpts below:

Answering The Call Of Enthusiasts, Bronco Brand Expands Sasquatch Package To Models With 7-Speed Manual Transmission

Listening to reservation-holder feedback, Ford is expanding the availability of its high-performance off-road Sasquatch™ package to all-new Bronco two- and four-door models with a class-first 7-speed manual transmission.

“The Bronco community spoke and we heard them,” said Mark Grueber, Ford Bronco consumer marketing manager. “Our team moved quickly to add Sasquatch with a manual transmission – another example of our focus on giving customers the best possible off-road vehicles and accessories that we can.”

The increased availability of the Sasquatch package also makes the Ford Bronco the only 4×4 with a 7-speed manual and 35-inch off-road tires in its class.

Read the full article by visiting Media.Ford.com.

Reserve Your New Ford Bronco at Borgman Ford in Grand Rapids, MI

Looking forward to the return of the legendary Ford Bronco next year? Reserve yours now at Borgman Ford! You will be among the first to own and drive the new off-road vehicle when it arrives and our staff will be more than happy to assist you through the process!

Click Here to reserve your Ford Bronco at Borgman Ford, or Click Here to reserve your Ford Bronco Sport. If you want to learn more about the three new models, take a look at our New Ford Bronco Page. Come see why we’re the Best in the West!

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Ready or not, the colder weather is on its way to West Michigan. As most Michiganders know, the mixture of cold, dry air, and the salt spread on the roads wreak havoc on your vehicle over time.

However, there are things you can do to minimize the risk of something going wrong from the winter wear and tear on your vehicle. In this Borgman How-To, we’ll go over some things you can do or check for yourself. That way you’ll know when it’s time to bring your vehicle in for service.

When driving in the West Michigan winter weather, there are four forces working against you:

• Cold, Dry Air
• Reduced Traction
• Salt & De-Icing Solution
• Poor Visibility

Let’s take a look at each of these, and if you have any suspicions or doubts about your vehicle’s winter-readiness, schedule an appointment with the Borgman Service Center today!

Check Your Hoses & Belts For Cracks & Leaks

When rubber gets cold, it shrinks and becomes more brittle. Because of this, rubber components under the hood of your vehicle (and to some extent your tires) are susceptible to cracking or splitting in the cold weather. 

There a number of rubber components, but the most common troublemakers in the cold are the serpentine belt, coolant hoses, and the vacuum lines. Check your coolant hoses for any chalky residue, indicating steam escaping from cracks. Take a look at your serpentine belt too, (it’s on the side of the engine) and 

make sure you don’t see any excessive wear.

Vacuum leaks are harder to spot, but if you notice your vehicle accelerating strangely or revving too high or too low, schedule an appointment with us immediately.

Check Your Tires As The Temperature Drops

Your tire pressure drops in the cold, so make sure to check your tire pressure often this time of year. It’s usually best to check pressure first thing in the morning when the tires are cold. Properly-inflated tires are essential for your vehicle’s handling, stopping distance, and fuel economy. 

While you’re checking pressure, make sure you still have good tread on your tires too. While you can get a tire tread depth gauge, it’s much easier to use a penny. Turn it so Abraham Lincoln is upside down, and put the penny into the tire tread. As long as the tire is covering the top of his head, your tires are still good. If you’re noticing the rear tires are less worn than your fronts, come on in for a tire rotation!

If driving in ice and snow gives you trouble, you might want to talk to our experts about a winter set of tires too!

Keeping Road Salt Off Your Vehicle

During the winter, the road commission sprays the streets and highways with a salt solution to melt road ice. This solution isn’t just salt either, they mix in other chemicals that help melt ice faster and at lower temperatures. 

Unfortunately, the same reaction that causes the ice to melt also rusts your vehicle faster than just salt water would. This not only causes cosmetic damage, but it also corrodes your frame and suspension as well. 

During the winter, you have two options: be diligent about having your car washed, or ask us about rust protection with our friends at Great Lakes Chemical. 

Increase Visibility with New Wiper Blades

Being able to see while it’s snowing is critical, as you have reduced traction and other drivers to pay extra attention to. If your wiper blades are streaking or making lots of noise, now is the time to have them replaced.

We have a great selection of different wipers for different seasons, and our staff will be happy to explain the difference to you. We’ll lay out a good-better-best selection and answer any questions you have.

Get Ready for the West Michigan Winter at Borgman Ford in Grand Rapids, MI

Is it time for a basic service check? Have any questions about any of the tips listed above? Trust the experts at the Borgman Service Center to ensure the work is done right. Keeping up on your maintenance is the key to safety during the winter months. Take a look at our Service Specials and Schedule Your Appointment online today. Our friendly and knowledgeable staff is here to help if you have any questions. Come see why we’re the Best in the West!

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Borgman Ford is pleased to share some exciting news with truck fans in Grand Rapids and West Michigan: production of the all-new 2021 Ford F-150 has officially begun! This hotly-anticipated truck will be produced within the historic Rogue Center in Michigan, and will be arriving at Borgman this November.

Ford also confirmed that they are planning a huge, $700 million expansion at the Rogue River complex, adding a new, high-tech facility to produce the all-electric F-150. This facility will produce many new Michigan jobs, with a recent study showing that the Ford F-Series of trucks alone employs over 500,000 people. The all-electric Ford F-150 will arrive at Borgman around the summer of 2022.

This recent story from the Official Ford Media Center tells more about the 2021 Ford F-150, the all-electric Ford F-150, and expansions to the Rogue River Complex including the Michigan jobs it creates. Take a look below and watch an exciting video about the testing going on for the New Electric Ford F-150!

Ford Deepens Commitment To American Manufacturing, Celebrates Production Start Of All-New F-150, Breaks Ground On New Electric F-150 Plant At Historic Rouge Center

Ford announced an even deeper commitment to American manufacturing, celebrating the production start of the all-new F-150 at the storied Ford Rouge Center and confirming construction of the new Rouge Electric Vehicle Center where it will build the all-electric F-150 by mid-2022.

The new manufacturing center at the Dearborn-based Rouge Center, once complete, will add 300 jobs and is part of a $700 million investment in building the all-new F-150 lineup, including the first-ever F-150 PowerBoost hybrid. The new jobs will support battery assembly and production of the F-150 PowerBoost hybrid and fully electric F-150.

Including investments for Bronco and Ranger at the Michigan Assembly Plant in Wayne, Mich., announced last year, Ford plans to invest more than $1.45 billion and create approximately 3,000 jobs over the next three years in Michigan alone.

“We are proud to once again build and innovate for the future here at the Rouge with the debut of our all-new F-150 and the construction of a modern new manufacturing center to build the first-ever all-electric F-150,” said Bill Ford, executive chairman, Ford Motor Company. “This year’s COVID-19 crisis made it clear why it is so important for companies like Ford to help keep our U.S. manufacturing base strong and help our country get back to work.” 

Read the full story by visiting Media.Ford.com.

Shop New Ford F-150 & F-Series Trucks at Borgman Ford in Grand Rapids, MI

Looking for a new truck to help you tackle the toughest jobs in West Michigan and want to support the Michigan workers that make them? Visit Borgman Ford in Grand Rapids today and browse our huge selection of New Ford F-Series trucks, including the mighty 2020 Ford F-150! If you’re holding out for the New 2021 Ford F-150, you can still visit us today and we’ll help you build the truck of your dreams. Our friendly and knowledgeable staff would be delighted to help you navigate the Ford F-150 ordering process, answering any questions you have along the way.

There’s a truck for every job in our massive selection, so check out our Ford F-Series Inventory and get live help while you configure your deal and schedule your test drive online. See all the ways we treat our customers like family here, then come in and see why we’re the Best in the West!

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Fall is on its way to West Michigan, so if you’re looking for a capable full-size SUV for your cold-weather adventures or something that can tow your camper next season, this article is for you! This month, we’re pitting three industry-leading Full-Sized Luxury SUVs against each other, each with lots of power, interior comfort, safety features, and the capability to take you (and your toys) on any adventure imaginable in West Michigan.

However, as we’re looking over the specs of the Ford Expedition, the Chevrolet Suburban, and the GMC Yukon, we’re finding that the Ford Expedition has some key advantages over the others – especially if comfort and towing is a factor in your decision.

In this Borgman Head to Head, we’re cross-comparing these three mighty SUVs in detail so you can make an informed decision. Let’s take a look!

Engine Options, Fuel Efficiency, and Towing

2020 Ford Expedition

Looking beneath the massive hood of the 2020 Ford Expedition, you’ll find the highly-capable 3.5L EcoBoost V6. This turbocharged aluminum block engine is one of the most powerful Ford produces: making 375 horsepower and 470 lb/ft of torque. Though these standard specs already leave the competition in the dust, the top-tier Ford Expedition Platinum makes use of some extra performance tuning to deliver 400 horsepower and 480lb/ft of torque.

The 2020 Ford Expedition features rear-wheel drive as standard, but higher trims will include Ford’s Intelligent Four-Wheel Drive. This highly-advanced system monitors a number of factors including wheel speed, pedal position, steering wheel angle, vehicle speed, and more to keep the vehicle stable. It’s also adept at detecting and compensating for a number of different road conditions including mud, snow, sand, ruts, steep hills, and more. One of our friendly sales associates will be happy to explain this system in detail during your visit.

When properly equipped, the 2020 Ford Expedition is capable of towing up to 9,300 pounds, again eclipsing the competition. Adding features like the I4x4 or opting for the larger (and heavier) Expedition MAX will reduce this to 9,000 pounds, which is still 600 pounds more than the closest competitor.

2020 Chevrolet Suburban

While it’s no slouch, the 2020 Suburban falls short on power when compared to the other two. Its 5.3L EcoTec3 V8 produces 355 horsepower and 383lb/ft of torque, with a maximum tow rating of 8,100 when properly equipped. Though the Chevy Suburban is left wanting for power even though it has more displacement, the lack of a turbocharger is mostly to blame. Like the others, the Suburban features a 10-speed automatic transmission and available four-wheel drive.

The highest trim level of the Chevrolet Suburban, called “High Country,” upgrades drivers to the more powerful 6.2L EcoTec3 V8. This engine produces 420 horsepower and 460lb/ft of torque, though this doesn’t expand its towing capacity.

2020 GMC Yukon

Being a cousin to the Chevrolet Suburban, the GMC Yukon features the same engines and 10-speed transmission: the 5.3L V8 the 6.2L V8. Also, because the vehicles have a similar curb weight, they offer the same towing capacity: a base of 6,300 pounds and up to 8,400 pounds when properly equipped.

The GMC Yukon also features available four-wheel drive and has the same engine power as the Chevy Suburban.

Interior Features

2020 Ford Expedition

If you’ve never seen the interior of the Ford Expedition, we invite you to come check it out at our showroom. It’s luxurious, refined, and incredibly comfortable – especially if you opt for the longer Ford Expedition MAX. Up to 8 adults including the driver can sit comfortably anywhere in the vehicle, and captain’s chairs are available for the second row.

If you love looking at the beautiful scenery of West Michigan, you can look up through the available panoramic vista moonroof while enjoying your favorite tunes through the Bang & Olufsen sound system. The Expedition features Ford’s intuitive SYNC 3 system, which also features available wireless phone charging, navigation, Ford’s CoPilot360 driver-assist technologies, a 4G LTE Wi-Fi Hotspot, and more.

The 2020 Ford Expedition features a full 104.6 cu/ft of cargo space with the seats folded down, going up to 121.5 in the larger Expedition MAX. That’s plenty of space for trips to the hardware store or for bringing just about anything with you on your adventures.

2020 Chevrolet Suburban 

The Chevy Suburban stacks up pretty neatly against the 2020 Ford Expedition in terms of specs, but has it beat on seating capacity and cargo space. There are a couple of caveats here though. Firstly, the Suburban can seat 9 passengers, but only if you opt for the front-row bench seat. Secondly, the 2020 Chevrolet Suburban has everyone beat on cargo space, with 121.7 cubic feet of available space, beating the Expedition MAX by a mere 0.2cu/ft.

At the dash of the Chevy Suburban you’ll find all of the features you’d expect in a modern full-size SUV of this caliber. Driver-assist technologies, a 4G LTE WiFi hotspot, an infotainment system, and more. What’s especially of note is how quiet the cabin is, with an acoustic-laminated windshield and triple-sealed doors. Another interesting feature is that instead of warning the driver of obstacles or an impending collision with lights and beeps, the Suburban uses vibrations inside the seat to alert you.

2020 GMC Yukon

Again, the GMC Yukon shares a lot of similarities with the Chevy Suburban due to their manufacturing, though the GMC is seated between Chevy and the luxurious Cadillac – giving you some extra refinement over the Suburban without the hefty price tag of a Cadillac Escalade.

Expect more surfaces that forego plastic for a more visually pleasing, touchable surface, supple leather trimming, more driver assist and infotainment features, and more. Notable features here include triple-zone climate control, a Bose 14-speaker sound system, and wireless phone charging.

Fuel-Economy and Overall Value

2020 Ford Expedition

The 2020 Ford Expedition starts at $52,810, making it the most expensive of the group, albeit not by much. That being said, for this price you get substantially more power over the others. To match the Ford Expedition on features, excluding power, you’d need to spend about this much with the others anyway.

In terms of fuel economy, the Expedition has everyone beat. Thanks to clever tuning and Ford’s EcoBoost technology, you can expect to get 23 mpg highway and 17 mpg city according to EPA estimates. All while churning out more power for highway cruising and towing than the other two.

2020 Chevrolet Suburban

With a starting MSRP of $51,700, the Chevy Suburban is positioned in the middle of the pack. Even though the Suburban’s advanced 10-speed transmission allows the engine to shut off four of its cylinders while cruising on the highway, it has the least impressive fuel economy of the three. When you compare up to 22 mpg highway, 15 mpg city, and the lesser engine power specs, you are literally getting less bang (from the gasoline) for your buck. 

2020 GMC Yukon

Despite being a more up-scale version of the Chevrolet Suburban, the 2020 GMC Yukon starts at $50,600 MSRP. However, the available options for the GMC Yukon exceed those of the Suburban, so you can easily end up with a much more expensive vehicle. What the GMC Yukon has going for it are the slightly improved fuel economy numbers over the Suburban: up to 23 highway and 16 city.

Be Ready For Anything in a 2020 Ford Expedition from Borgman Ford in Grand Rapids, MI

The Ford Expedition is the cream of the Ford SUV crop, and as we’ve detailed, is a cut above the rest where it matters. If you need to haul the whole family and all of their gear across West Michigan, we invite you to come in and see how the Ford Expedition is more than up for the challenge.

Take a look at our Online Inventory and visit our showroom soon to test drive the New 2020 Ford Expedition and see what all the fuss is about. Our friendly and courteous staff will make sure all of your questions are answered, and you’re getting the perfect vehicle for your family’s needs. 

Check out these reasons to Buy From Borgman, and remember if you see a better deal somewhere else, show us and we’ll match it. We’ve been driving the difference in West Michigan for 60 years, and it’d be our pleasure to help you get on the road to adventure. Come see why we’re the Best in the West!

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Borgman Ford is proud to represent a company that has stepped up to the plate during this COVID era to take care of their neighbors. As we shared earlier this year, Ford switched production to make powered respirators for front-line workers. Now with the completion of their 50,000th ventilator recently, they’ve again pledged to produce and supply 100,000 masks through 2021 to help communities all over, West Michigan included.

In this recent story from Ford, you can learn more about what they’re doing to produce these masks and the Michigan workers making it happen. Take a look below, including this short documentary called On The Line, which recently made its debut on YouTube!

Ford Announces Goal To Donate 100 Million Masks; New Documentary Celebrates Workforce Response To COVID-19

Following completion of its 50,000th ventilator to help clinicians treat COVID-19 patients, Ford is pivoting to target production of 100 million masks through 2021 for communities across the U.S. with limited access to personal protective equipment. The company, currently manufacturing 2.5 million medical-grade masks a week for its employees and at-risk communities, is growing the number of mask-making machines by mid- to late-October to increase production and deliver on its goal.

Ford is working with Ford Motor Company Fund, the company’s philanthropic arm, to identify donation recipients across the U.S. through a network of nonprofit and state and local partners. The company is focusing on military veterans, schools, food banks and African American communities, among others.

“As the pandemic continues, so does the spirit, grit and dedication of our Ford team and UAW partners to step up and contribute to help our country,” said Jim Hackett, Ford president and CEO. “Working together, we’re setting a goal of producing 100 million masks for families, children, individuals and communities who need them most.”

You can read the full article by visiting Media.Ford.com.

Safely Shop for New Ford Vehicles at Borgman Ford in Grand Rapids, MI

Here at Borgman Ford, we’ve taken many extra steps to ensure the safety of our customers and staff. Our showroom is open with surfaces sanitized regularly and all of our staff members wear masks when interacting with you. Our vehicles are also thoroughly sanitized after every test drive, and we encourage you to use our Online Tools to work out the majority of your deal before your visit. You’ll still have full access to one of our friendly and courteous sales associates if you need help or have any questions.

Take a look at our vast Online Inventory to get started, or Reach Out To Us if you have any questions. We’ve been driving the difference in West Michigan for 60 Years, and it’d be our pleasure to help you find the perfect vehicle for your lifestyle and budget.

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With Labor Day marking the unofficial end of the summer season, you might be looking to have one last hurrah through West Michigan before the colder weather arrives. Road trips are a fun, inexpensive way to see Michigan and visit places you’d otherwise never see. 

Best of all, day trips don’t require a whole lot of planning, given that your vehicle is in good, working order. If you want to be sure before you hit the road, trust the experts at the Borgman Service Center to thoroughly inspect your vehicle. We’ll make sure your tires, brakes, fluids, and other systems are in ship-shape so can focus on exploring Michigan with confidence.

Ready to hit the road to adventure? Take a look at these three fun destinations all within a reasonable distance of Grand Rapids, and better yet, they’re all outdoors so you can enjoy your trip at minimal risk during the pandemic.

Nordhouse Dunes Wilderness Area

113 Miles | 2 Hour Drive from Grand Rapids, MI

Located just north of Ludington, MI, and situated between the Lake Michigan lakeshore and Hamlin Lake, Nordhouse Dunes are a great destination for people who love nature, hiking, and camping. Whether you enjoy the view from atop a 140-foot dune or strolling through the woods to observe the wildlife, there’s plenty to explore in this 3,450 acre National Forest.

The Nordhouse Dunes are popular among hikers and campers, with about 10-miles of trail accessible from 2 developed trailheads at the end of Nurnberg Road and the Lake Michigan Recreation Area. Best of all, you’re only a short trip from the Ludington State Park & Campgrounds, or the many bars and restaurants in Ludington itself. Be sure to check ahead though in case you need to make special arrangements during COVID-19.

You can learn more about Nordhouse Dunes Wilderness Area and plan your trip here.

Silver Lake State Park

76 Miles | 90 Minute Drive from Grand Rapids, MI

For those that want a little more thrill from their day-long road trip, Sand Lake is a popular destination. Here, you can put your ORV through its paces in the Off-Roading Area, rent 4-wheelers, go on dune rides, and more. There’s also a campsite if you plan on staying overnight, but you’ll likely need to make a reservation in advance so be sure to call ahead. 

This State Park encompasses just under 3,000 acres of lakeshore dunes and beach, and calls off-road enthusiasts from all over, as it’s the only place you can drive on sand dunes in the eastern United States. You can also bring your boat and enjoy the scenery from the water!

You can learn more about Silver Lake Dunes here.

Saugatuck Dunes State Park

39 Miles | 35 Minute Drive from Grand Rapids, MI

If you’re looking for something more leisurely like a long walk on the beach, we suggest taking a look at the Saugatuck Dunes State Park. Just a short while north from Saugatuck’s Oval Beach, this small state park offers 2 and a half miles of secluded coastline along Lake Michigan and roughly 1,000 acres of dunes and rolling hills to explore. Though camping is not permitted here, it’s still a fantastic place to spend the day and watch the sunset over the lake.

In addition to being relatively close to Grand Rapids, it’s also within minutes of Saugutuck’s downtown area, with various shops, art galleries, restaurants, and ice cream parlors. Be sure to check in to see which businesses are operating this year though, as some are only allowing a limited number of people inside.

Learn more about Saugatuck Dunes here.

Make Sure Your Vehicle is Road-Trip-Ready at the Borgman Service Center in Grand Rapids, MI

Taking one last trip out of town is a great way to have fun with the whole family. By exploring West Michigan’s state parks, you’re also having fun safely by avoiding enclosed spaces and places with crowds of people. If you’re planning on getting out there before the summer ends, schedule a checkup at the Borgman Service Center. Our experts can make sure you’re up on your regular maintenance, fluids are topped up, tires are in good shape, and find unexpected problems before you hit the road.

Schedule your appointment online and be sure to check out our latest Service Specials. During your visit, we’ll make sure you understand everything we find about your vehicle so you can make informed decisions, then make the necessary repairs in a timely manner. Come see why we’re the Best in the West!

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Parking in downtown Grand Rapids MI can be a drag, but someday in the not-so-distant future, your Ford may be able to do it for you like your own personal valet! Borgman Ford was intrigued by this recently-announced demonstration by Ford, Bedrock, and Bosch, where they will show how parking garages of the future could feasibly operate more conveniently and efficiently.

Using a modified Ford Escape, Bedrock’s Assembly Garage, and smart technology from Bosch, Ford is looking to prove that automatic parking in urban areas can be both easy and convenient for drivers, as well as profitable for garage operators. Without the need to allow space for drivers and passengers to disembark vehicles, garages will be able to hold more vehicles. That means more parking spaces – something Grand Rapidians know we need more of. See some excerpts from the official announcement from Ford below:

Ford, Bedrock, And Bosch Exploring Highly Automated Vehicle Technology In Detroit To Help Make Parking Easier

Many people enjoy driving… until it’s time to park. So why not leave the task to the vehicle?

Ford Motor Company, Bedrock and Bosch are launching a demonstration project with connected Ford Escape test vehicles that can drive and park themselves inside Bedrock’s Assembly Garage in Detroit using Bosch smart infrastructure. This is the first U.S. infrastructure-based solution for automated valet parking where the vehicle will park itself inside a parking garage.

The research will take place in the Corktown neighborhood, the site of Ford’s new mobility innovation district, anchored by Michigan Central Station. The district will draw mobility innovators and disruptors from around the world to develop, test, and launch new solutions to solve urban transportation challenges, improve mobility access for everyone and prepare for the increasingly connected and autonomous world ahead.

“We are continually searching for opportunities to expand our leading suite of Ford Co-Pilot360 driver-assist technologies that help people drive more confidently and we believe automated valet parking technology holds great promise,” said Ken Washington, chief technology officer at Ford Motor Company. “Our work with Bosch and Bedrock also aligns with our vision for the future, which includes increasingly automated vehicles that are more aware of their surroundings while requiring less on-board computing to help improve design, packaging and affordability.”

The demonstration project will enable the three companies to gain valuable insights regarding user experience, vehicle design, parking structure design and application to expand the technology and its application.

To read the full article, visit Media.Ford.com.

Looking For Your Next Ford? Visit Borgman Ford in Grand Rapids, MI

While we’re still several years away from the widespread use of the systems above, many New Ford Vehicles do park themselves in normal parking spots with Active Park Assist. Many also house advanced technologies like lane departure warnings, adaptive cruise control, collision warning with brake assistance, and more. We’d love to show you these features during your visit to our showroom!

Check out our vast online inventory, find your favorite, then use our easy online shopping tools to schedule your test drive. Our staff will be more than happy to answer any questions you might have, and will help you find the perfect vehicle for your lifestyle and budget. Remember, Borgman is home to the Price Match Guarantee and the Love It Guarantee – read more about what makes us the Best in the West on our Why Buy Borgman page. We hope to see you soon!

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