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It's normal for all the lights on your dash to come on when you start your vehicle. If one or more warning lights remain illuminated, you may have an urgent problem. In this comprehensive guide, we're diving into what your Ford dashboard warnings mean for your vehicle's health and when you should visit your local Ford dealer for a service appointment. Understanding Your Ford Dashboard Warnings: A Guide to What They Mean for Your Vehicle's Health Master Warning Light If you see the master warning light, a red triangle with an exclamation point inside it, there is a chance that your vehicle's health is in jeopardy. However, it could also be an alert that your trunk or door is ajar. Often, the master warning light is accompanied by another warning light on the dashboard. Charging System The charging system warning light looks like a car battery. If you see this light come on, pull over in a safe place immediately and have your vehicle towed. This light indicates that your alternator or battery is failing to charge and your vehicle will soon stop running. Engine Coolant Temperature It's important to keep an eye on your engine coolant temperature while you drive. The engine coolant temperature warning light resembles a thermometer, and the color of the warning light gives you a quick picture of your engine coolant temperature. If the warning light is blue, your coolant needs more time to warm up before you start driving. If the light is red, your coolant is too hot. Engine Oil Warning You should also periodically check your dash for a light that looks like an oil can. This is the engine oil warning light and often indicates that you have low oil pressure. This can be devastating for your engine health. When You Should Visit Your Local Ford Dealer for Service Generally, you should visit your local dealership as soon as possible to have your Ford worked on if the light on your dash is red. If there is an amber light on your dash, you probably need maintenance soon, but it is unlikely that there is an urgent problem. As a general rule, red warning lights on your dashboard indicate a severe problem for your vehicle's health. Amber lights usually indicate less serious problems. To discover what exactly is wrong with your vehicle, contact us at Clay Maxey Ford of Harrison in Harrison, AR to schedule a service appointment.

The 2024 Ford Ranger isn't just a legendary, hard-working pickup truck. It's also an off-road warrior, designed to conquer the untamed and take the adventure beyond the places the pavement doesn't dare to go. With the power to tackle obstacles and steep grades, advanced 4x4 systems to clamber and grit with the best of them, and plenty of towing to complete the adventure, the Ranger is ready to roam. Here are just a few things that make the Ranger great. 5 Off-Road Capabilities of the 2024 Ford Ranger 1. Robust Powertrains With three muscular engines on offer, there isn't a lot the Ranger can't do. Even the entry-level 2.3-liter EcoBoost I-4 offers 270 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque for a muscular drive, while the 2.7-liter offering boosts horsepower to 315 and torque to a grin-inducing 400 lb-ft. But step up to the Ranger Raptor, and you'll be rewarded with a 400-horsepower, 3.0-liter beast under the hood, with 430 lb-ft of torque to clamber over even the toughest terrain. 2. Advanced and Capable Drivetrains With the available 4x4 drivetrain, this capable pickup can keep a grip, no matter what you're driving on. And whether it's mud, sand, snow, or rocky trails beneath its wheels, the Ranger's ready to tackle the challenge. 3. Rugged Chassis and Suspension The 2024 Ranger's chassis is built specifically to endure the rigors of heavy use, riding on outboard-mounted rear shocks for heightened comfort. Upgrades like the FX4 Off-Road package offer an increased wheelbase for better approach angles, a limited-slip differential, an independent front suspension, and an increased track width for enhanced stability. 4. Protected Design From its high-strength steel frame to the available exposed steel underbody skid plates, the Ranger is designed to protect its vital components from off-road hazards like jagged rocks and errant branches, which frees you up to focus on the trail ahead and the horizon you're driving toward. 5. Takes More With You It's not just that the 2024 Ranger can take you far into the unknown and down the path of adventure. It's got the muscle to take your heaviest loads there, too. With a maximum payload capacity of over 1,800 pounds and a towing capacity of up to 7,500 pounds when properly configured, the Ranger is more than capable of hauling the trailers, boats, or gear you need for your off-the-beaten-path journey. With so much to offer to any off-road enthusiast, the 2024 Ranger should be at the top of your to-drive list. Test drive yours today at Clay Maxey Ford in Harrison, AR, and discover just how much fun a capable pickup can be.

Are you ready to get behind the wheel of a new Ford? Before choosing a ride at your local Ford dealer, you have to navigate the lease vs buy decision. Both options offer numerous benefits, but you have to pick one that's right for you. Lease vs Buy Options at Your Ford Dealer: Finding the Option That Fits Your Lifestyle Assess Your Budget If you're working with a limited budget and want to minimize upfront costs, leasing could be the best choice. Many lease deals require little to no down payment, meaning you can drive off with a new Ford without breaking the bank. With lower monthly payments, you might even be able to afford a higher-end Ford model than you thought possible. For those with the means to make a larger down payment, buying a Ford could be the way to go. If you have great credit, you might even qualify for exclusive deals like 0% APR financing. A low interest rate will make your monthly payments more manageable. Estimate Your Annual Mileage Are you a low-mileage driver who mainly uses your vehicle for short commutes and occasional weekend trips? Leasing could be perfect for you. Most lease agreements come with annual mileage limits ranging from 10,000 to 15,000 miles a year. If you exceed these limits, you may incur mileage overage fees. For adventure seekers and road warriors, buying is a better option. When you own your Ford, there is no limit to the miles you can rack up. You can embark on off-road adventures and long road trips without worrying about mileage penalties. Since you own the vehicle, you can also customize it to improve its capabilities. Determine the Duration of Driving the Car When deciding whether to buy or lease a car, you should consider how long you intend to keep it. If you love the thrill of driving the latest models, leasing is the best choice. A typical lease lasts 24 to 36 months, meaning you can drive a new Ford every few years and experience the latest tech and features. If you're the type of driver who forms a long-term bond with your vehicle, buying could be your best bet. You can keep the Ford for as long as you desire and sell it when you decide to upgrade. Are you ready to take the next step? Visit Clay Maxey Ford of Harrison in Harrison, AR to explore our extensive inventory of new Ford models.

The 2024 Ford Maverick is a compact pickup with an exceptional standard powertrain, a well-designed truck bed, and the modern technology features that today's drivers are looking for. Check out our guide below to learn more about how the Maverick stands apart. The 2024 Ford Maverick: Revolutionizing the Compact Pickup The FLEXBED One of the ways Ford decided to make the most of their compact pickup's space is by designing a flexible truck bed they named FLEXBED. This standard area is easy to customize with 2x4 or 2x6 boards, which fit into vertical and horizontal slots in the truck bed. It's easy to make this space into one designed for bike racks, or an area where you safely store your tools. The tailgate is also flexible, with the option to lock in mid-position, fully closed, or flat. The standard truck bed comes with six tie-downs. The tie-downs also double as bottle openers, which is a convenient feature for your next tailgating party. There are also plenty of Ford accessories and available features that can help you customize the FLEXBED for your needs, including an available 120V outlet so you can charge your tools or electronics. The Exceptional Performance This year, the Maverick comes standard with a 2.0-liter EcoBoost gas-powered engine. It comes standard with front-wheel drive and can be had with available all-wheel drive. You'll have 250 horsepower under the hood with this excellent entry-level option. The Maverick can tow 2,000 pounds, or up to 4,000 pounds with the available 4k Tow package. Drivers looking for a hybrid pickup can choose the available 2.5-liter hybrid system. This gives you a Maverick with 191 horsepower. The Excellent Driver Assistance Technology Your Maverick will come standard with pre-collision assist, and automatic LED high-beams. You'll also have a great rearview camera, improving visibility where you need it most. There are plenty of great available driver assist features you can add to your Maverick, including lane departure warning, lane-centering, and lane-keeping aid. The Modern Infotainment System Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard features in the new Maverick. The eight-inch LCD touchscreen is well-placed in the center of the dashboard, making it easy to operate your audio system. You'll have a standard AM/FM stereo with six speakers, and can connect your smartphone using Bluetooth for audio streaming. If you're looking for a small truck with big features, you're going to love the new Maverick. Visit Clay Maxey Ford of Harrison in Harrison, AR today to see our impressive selection of new vehicles

When Ford says they build them tough, they mean it. Few vehicle models in history have proven to be as beloved and enduring as the F-150. And the latest is no exception. A standout for its horsepower, safety features, and superior comfort, the new 2024 Ford F-150 is a worthwhile addition to any fleet. 3 Reasons to Choose the 2024 Ford F-150 for Your Next Truck 1. It's Got the Power With a variety of engine options ranging from a 2.7L EcoBoost V6 to a 5.2L Supercharged V8, you're sure to find the perfect fit for your hauling needs. And because it's a hybrid engine, you reap the benefits of both gas and electric energy. That's less wear and tear on your engine without having to sacrifice the horsepower. Pretty sweet deal! 2. Safety Comes First When you're in the driver's seat of your F-150, you can be assured that you and your family are in one of the safest trucks on the road. Rearview cameras, curve control, and roll stability control are just some of the safety features that come standard with the new F-150. If you've got trailers or large loads to maneuver, then the Pro Trailer Backup Assist has your back. 3. Room for the Whole Family No more picking and choosing who gets to come along for the ride. Whether it be a regular or a super-crew cab, there's room for the whole family in the Ford F-150. But it doesn't stop there, the seats in the F-150 are also a plushy joy to sink into. And for those antsy travelers, a 12-inch entertainment screen just might be the thing that keeps the sailing smooth. 4. Built With the Busybody in Mind The world has never been so connected, and it's never been more important to be connected while on the go. With a built-in workspace, the F-150 is designed with the modern working person in mind. No more awkward balancing acts using your thighs for a surface. Just take out your laptop or pad, set it up on your workspace, and get busy. There's no doubt about it, the Ford F-150 is one of the toughest, safest, and most comfortable vehicles on the road these days. Ready to get behind the wheel and experience it for yourself? Come visit us at Clay Maxey Ford in Harrison, AR and we'll help you find the perfect match.

The 2024 Ford Edge lineup lets you find the perfect SUV to match your style, budget, and driving needs. With five distinct trims to choose from and various optional upgrades, you get to choose the perfect Edge that ticks all your boxes. Trim Levels of the 2024 Ford Edge: Design Your Drive SE The 2024 Edge lineup kicks off with the SE model, which is an attractive choice for value-conscious buyers. Sleek exterior styling highlighted by an iconic honeycomb grille and 18-inch wheels gives this Edge a bold appearance. The SE gets a powerful 2.0L EcoBoost I-4 engine and intelligent AWD, as do all the other trims, except the ST. The SE's cabin prioritizes comfort with premium cloth seats and dual-zone automatic climate control. You will enjoy quality entertainment thanks to the intuitive SYNC 4A infotainment system with a 12-inch touchscreen. Connect your Edge to the FordPass Connect app, and you will get a Wi-Fi hotspot that supports up to ten devices. SE comes with the Ford Co-Pilot360 suite of driver aids for extra confidence behind the wheel. SEL If you're seeking more value, you will appreciate the upgrades in the SEL model. This trim builds upon the base SE with interior comfort features like power-adjustable front seats, heated front seats, and unique ActiveX seating material. You can also choose optional interior conveniences like a heated steering wheel and a wireless charging pad. ST-Line The ST-Line is perfect for buyers seeking a sportier vibe on the 2024 Edge. On the exterior, it features black accents, 20-inch premium gloss-black wheels, a power liftgate, and an ST-Line badge on the Fender. Inside, you get unique ActiveX seating with red accent stitching. A wireless charging pad comes standard to complement the provided USB ports for smartphone charging. Titanium Titanium introduces more convenience features and optional upgrades. The exterior adds functional upgrades like rear parking sensors and rain-sensing front wipers. You can customize your Titanium with optional safety upgrades like adaptive cruise control, evasive steering, and a front 180-degree camera. If you struggle with parking, the optional active park assist system will come in handy. ST This performance model sports an aggressive black mesh grille with ST badging, body-color accents, and unique dual-exhaust tips that enhance that sporty look. Under the hood lies a powerful 2.7L EcoBoost V6 engine that delivers thrilling acceleration and razor-sharp handling. The ST cabin boasts leather-trimmed seats with the ST logo. You also get a standard 10-way power driver's seat for better adjustability. The upgraded 12-speaker B&O audio system elevates the audio experience on your drives. Have you spotted the perfect Edge from this extensive lineup? Contact Clay Maxey Ford of Harrison in Harrison, AR to schedule a test drive of the 2024 Edge.

We are excited to show our friends in Harrison and the surrounding areas the highly anticipated 2024 Ford Mustang. This model begins the 7th generation of this legendary American muscle car, and we're proud to say, it does not disappoint. Combining the pony's legacy of power, performance, and style with cutting-edge technology and engineering advancements, the 2024 Mustang delivers a driving experience that's both new and nostalgic. Your Guide to the 2024 Ford Mustang Experience Pony Power at Your Ford Dealer Driving through the Ozarks requires some muscle, and the 2024 Mustang is a powerful force. The 2.3-liter EcoBoost® 4-cylinder pulls a hefty 315 horses, while the 10-speed transmission promotes good fuel efficiency, quick shifting, and fast accelerating. For even more power, serious adrenaline-seekers will be won over by the GT and Dark Horse models, which each boast a 5.0-liter V8 under the hood. Capable of shoving out 500 horsepower, these Mustang models take sportscar driving to the next level. Exterior You will experience optimal visibility, and other drivers will see you day or night thanks to daytime running lamps, LED projector headlights, and LED sequential taillights. Dual-power adjustable side-view mirrors allow you to customize your rear and side vision span according to driver height and seating position. Interior Rather than a group of traditional gauge fixtures, the 2024 Mustang is designed with a fully digital 12.4-inch LCD instrument screen. Push-button start allows hands-free convenience, while the memory driver's seat stores 3 seating positions, delivering personalized comfort in seconds. The Mustang's driver-assist suite, the Ford Co-Pilot360™, provides an extra layer of convenience and safety with features like blind spot assist, lane-keeping alerts, and adapting cruise control. Infotainment The SYNC 4 13.2-inch infotainment touchscreen display shares the panel with the gauge readings, so driver messages, entertainment apps, and smartphone integration, Apple Car Play/Android Audio, are all located conveniently and safely at your fingertips. A 6-speaker audio system provides premium sounds, and the AM/FM radio and MP3 capabilities ensure you have your favorite traveling tunes or news channels at your command. Safety Though the Mustang is a hit with thrill chasers, it doesn't miss a beat when it comes to safety and security features. The 2024 is equipped with AdvanceTrac® with Electronic Stability Control (SEC): a system that uses sensors to detect traction loss while on the road. Dual front airbags, along with side-impact and side-curtain airbags, offer protection from all angles in case of an impact. Also standard in 2024 Mustang models, SecuriLock® Passive Anti-Theft System immobilizes the vehicle if a preset code is not entered upon starting the engine. Whether you're looking forward to weekend cruising or zipping through the scenic Ozarks, the 2024 Mustang will take you there in true sportscar style. You can experience this new generation of engineering excellence when you visit Clay Maxey Ford of Harrison in Harrison, AR for a test drive today!

Your new Ford is a great vehicle and will serve you for many years. It's built to the highest standards of quality and care to ensure longevity and performance. It carries some of the best warranty protection to cover you against any unforeseen issues. As your Ford dealer, we want to tell you more about what your Ford warranty covers. From Your Ford Dealer: What's Covered by the 2024 Ford Warranty? Bumper-to-Bumper Warranty This warranty applies to almost every component in your Ford. This warranty does not cover some components, as they are covered by other warranties that apply to their systems. Manufacturing or labor-related defects are exceptionally rare, but they can occur. If any component covered by this warranty develops a fault, the fault will be repaired by an authorized dealer at no charge. Coverage under this warranty extends for the first three years or 36,000 miles, whichever comes first. Any issues caused by repairs using non-approved parts, accidents, or normal wear and tear aren't covered by this warranty. The warranty booklet explains the reasons why coverage wouldn't apply. Tire Warranty Although your tires aren't manufactured by Ford, they are covered as part of the above warranty. If your tires are defective in any way, Ford will pay all or part of the replacement cost, depending on the number of miles driven. The percentage of replacement cost covered varies from 100% if an issue occurs under 12,000 miles to 30% over 24,000 miles. Powertrain Warranty Your Ford's engine, transmission, and drivetrain components are protected by an extended warranty. Coverage under this warranty section applies for the first five years or 60,000 miles. All the components covered by this warranty are listed in the warranty booklet. Diesel Engine Coverage If your Ford has a diesel engine, its components are covered for five years or 100,000 miles Perforation Coverage Perforation is rust or corrosion that produces a hole through either your Ford's body metal or sheet metal. Specific protection against corrosion is applied to the metal when your Ford is built. In the unlikely event of a failure in the application of this protection, the affected metal section or sections will be replaced for free. Perforation coverage applies for five years and unlimited mileage. Hybrid/Electric Unique Component Warranty If your Ford has an electrical drivetrain, this warranty protects these unique components are protected for eight years or 100,000 miles. The exact components covered by this warranty depend on your vehicle model. Safety Restraint System Coverage Your airbags and seat belts, together with their system components, are protected against defects for the first five years or 60,000 miles. These are some of the highlights of this comprehensive warranty. If you'd like to know more about your coverage, visit us today at Clay Maxey Ford of Harrison in Harrison, AR.

Your Ford's tires are the vital link between your vehicle and the road, and they are responsible – at least in part – for acceleration, braking, cornering, and soaking up bumps for a comfortable ride. Neglecting your tires can compromise the safety, performance, and fuel economy of your Ford, so being aware of the key signs of tire damage or excessive wear can prevent headaches and alert you to when it's time for new tires at the Ford dealership. Is It Time for New Tires at the Ford Dealership? Look at Tread Wear The easiest test is the classic "penny test." Insert a penny upside down into your tire's tread grooves, and ff you can see the top of Lincoln's head, your tires are dangerously worn and need immediate replacement. For maximum safety, experts recommend replacing tires once the tread is worn down to 4/32" of an inch. Modern tires feature also have built-in tread wear indicator bars, which are small rubber bars molded between the tire treads. Once the tread wears down to the level of these bars, it's definitely time for replacement. How Old Are They? Tires, even with good tread, degrade over time. The sidewall of your tires has a four-digit code revealing their date of manufacture, and most tire manufacturers recommend replacing tires at least every six years, regardless of tread depth, as the rubber compound hardens and loses grip. What Do They Look Like? Closely inspect your tire sidewalls for bubbles, deep cuts, or significant cracks. These types of damage compromise the structural integrity of the tire and pose a blowout risk. Consult a tire professional immediately if you discover any sidewall damage. Uneven tread wear across the tire can also point to problems with tire pressure or wheel alignment. Feathering (a sawtooth pattern) on the edges might signify a toe alignment issue, while excessive wear in the center or at the outer edges can be caused by incorrect tire inflation. What Do They Sound Like? Excessive vibrations felt through the steering wheel or your seat, along with increased tire noise, are often a symptom of tire damage or misalignment. Ignoring these signs can accelerate tire wear and put a strain on your vehicle's suspension. Regular tire rotations, following the schedule in your Ford's owner's manual, are a smart preventative measure and will help you extend the life of your tires as long as possible. Rotations help even out tire wear and can give technicians a chance to catch any developing issues early. Additionally, don't forget about your tire pressure: check it regularly and maintain the recommended levels for your specific model. Is it time for some tires? Come see us at Clay Maxey Ford in Harrison, AR and talk to our techs.

If you're looking for the perfect vehicle for your family, the Ford Explorer is a great choice. With advanced safety features, a large, comfortable interior, and more, an Explorer from Clay Maxey Ford in Harrison, AR is great for taking on adventures, whether you're headed down the street or across the country. Family Adventures in the Ford Explorer: Safety and Comfort for the Long Haul Advanced Safety Features When it comes to choosing a vehicle for your family's daily driver or for taking on fun adventures, nothing is more important than safety. The 2024 Explorer is equipped with advanced safety features that give you the peace of mind that your family is protected, no matter where your adventures take you. Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) constantly scans the road in front of you and alerts the driver to vehicles or pedestrians in your path. If a potential impact is detected and the driver doesn't take action, the vehicle will automatically apply the brakes to bring you to a safe stop. Intelligent Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) can recognize traffic flow in front of you and slow your vehicle's speed if the vehicles in front of you slow. Lane Centering scans the lane markings and adjusts your vehicle's position to keep you centered in your lane. In poor light conditions, Auto High-Beam Headlamps switch on to give you a better view of the road in front of you. When they sense headlights coming toward you, they will automatically dim. Tow Up to 5,600 Pounds If your family's long-haul adventures include an RV, boat, ATV, or other gear, your Explorer can help you get where you need to go. Depending on the model that you choose, your Explorer will be able to tow up to 5,600 pounds. Certain models feature Tow/Haul mode as a part of the Terrain Management System. This technology adjusts your vehicle's driving settings based on the terrain that you're navigating. One of the Roomiest Interiors at Clay Maxey Ford in Harrison, AR The ​spacious Explorer ​offers one of the roomiest interiors available in an SUV today. Available PowerFold third-row seats allow you to seat up to seven passengers. ​E-Z Entry ​second-row seats make it easy for passengers to access the third row. If you don't need room for that many passengers, simply push a bottom to fold ​the third row and create plenty of room for cargo for long trips. ​Choose from a variety of interior colors and trim packages to customize your ride to your family's ​style. One unique feature of the interior of the Explorer is the ​Multi-Color ​Ambient ​Lighting. ​Choose from seven different colors of ambient colors to ​light the first and second rows. ​ Ready to see if the Explorer is the right choice for your family? Contact Clay Maxey Ford in Harrison, AR today to schedule a test drive or check out our available inventory.

Venturing into the robust world of Ford's SuperDuty lineup at Clay Maxey Ford in Harrison, AR, reveals a testament to engineering finesse and safety innovation. With the 2024 model year, Ford SuperDuty trucks like the F-250, F-350, and F-450 present a blend of power, sophistication, and, most importantly, advanced safety features tailored across various trim levels. Let’s dive deep into what makes these trucks not just vehicles but guardians on the road. XL: The Foundation of Safety At the bedrock of the SuperDuty series lies the XL trim, equipped with essential safety features that serve as the foundation for all subsequent models. Standard across the F-250, F-350, and F-450 XL trims are features like the AdvanceTrac™ with RSC® (Roll Stability Control™) and Trailer Sway Control, which ensure stability and control in towing scenarios, enhancing safety. Furthermore, the inclusion of a 6.8L V8 engine, TorqShift®-G 10-speed Transmission, and SYNC® 4 with an 8-inch LCD touchscreen marry power with connectivity, keeping drivers informed and in control​ ​. XLT: Elevated Safety Ascending to the XLT level introduces enhancements that build on the XL’s robust foundation. The F-250, F-350, and F-450 XLT models introduce an 8-way power driver's seat and front cloth 40/20/40 split-bench seats for improved comfort and ergonomics. Enhanced visibility and safety are ensured through automatic high-beam headlights and an integrated trailer brake controller, fortifying the SuperDuty’s stance as a vehicle designed for heavy-duty tasks without compromising safety​ ​. Advanced Trims: The Zenith of Safety As we scale the heights of the SuperDuty range, trims like the Lariat, King Ranch, Platinum, and Limited epitomize luxury intertwined with state-of-the-art safety technologies. These higher echelons include advanced features like onboard scales with Smart Hitch and Trailer Navigation, optimizing load management, and route planning for towing, thereby ensuring safety is paramount. The Connected Navigation services offer real-time traffic and weather updates, keeping the driver informed of potential hazards​ ​​ ​. Off-Road Package: Rugged Safety Specifically for the adventurers, the available XL Off-Road Package for the F-250 and F-350 XL models brings an added layer of safety to off-road excursions. This package includes an electronic locking rear differential, 33-inch off-road tires, skid plates, and unique air dams, enhancing the SuperDuty’s ability to tackle rugged terrains confidently​ ​. Conclusion Ford's commitment to safety across the SuperDuty lineup is evident in each trim level, from the foundational XL to the pinnacle Limited. At Clay Maxey Ford, we understand the critical importance of safety in heavy-duty tasks and adventures alike. The 2024 Ford SuperDuty, with its array of safety features tailored across different trims, stands as a paragon of reliability, power, and security. Whether hauling heavy loads, navigating challenging terrains, or ensuring the well-being of passengers, the SuperDuty series remains an unwavering guardian on the road.

No one wants to get stuck on the side of the road with a dead car battery. As batteries age in our Fords, the risk of unexpected die-outs increases. It's important to keep an eye out for warning signs that one of the most crucial components needs replacement. A new car battery from your local Ford dealer can help avoid stressful breakdowns. Getting a New Car Battery for Your Ford Vehicle 1. Battery Is Hard to Charge If it takes an abnormal amount of time for your battery to charge up after a recent jump start, it could mean the internal plates are degraded and it is losing its ability to store power. A new battery will charge quickly. 2. Corrosion Buildup Over time, batteries discharge acid and other fluids that can cause corrosion on battery terminals. Heavy white, green, or blue residue indicates it's time for a replacement to avoid electrical issues. Your Ford dealer cleans terminals during the installation of a new battery. 3. Voltage Low at Startup Using a digital multimeter, check for 12.6 volts or higher after starting. A readout significantly lower points to an aging battery, delivering reduced power output. Your dealer can perform a load test for accuracy. 4. Cranking Slows Over Time Notice it takes longer to turn your engine over today than it did a few months ago? Weakening internal components contribute to decreased cranking power as batteries age. Replace it before unreliable starts occur. 5. Surface Charge Remains High Surface charge refers to residual voltage immediately after removing the charging cables. A younger battery stabilizes around 12.4-12.6 volts within a couple of minutes, while an older battery may remain artificially high due to failing internals. 6. CCA Rating Has Dropped Cold Cranking Amps (CCA) represent how much power is left to start in freezing temps. Ask your dealer to check the CCA rating. A significant decrease from original factory specifications can lead to reduced winter starting ability. 7. Less than 3 Years Old Automotive batteries generally last 3-5 years, depending on climate and vehicle use. If yours is pushing or past the 3-year mark, it's close to the maximum lifespan. Rather than risk being stranded, replace it proactively with a new battery for consistent performance. 8. Sulfur or Acidic Smell A battery that is corroding or leaking electrolyte fluid may emit a distinct rotten egg or acidic odor, especially when charging. This internal damage means it's reached the end of its usable lifespan. If one or more warning signs apply to your Ford battery, it's in your best interest to replace it before complete failure occurs. Visit us today at Clay Maxey Ford of Harrison in Harrison, AR, and our battery experts will test your battery's condition, match your Ford's specs, and install it quickly at a competitive price.