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Service  |  Farmington, MO A Ford hybrid still has an engine that wants oil, tires that need rotating and brakes that need checking. What changes is how hard some of those parts work, plus a couple of pieces a gas Ford doesn't have. More hybrids roll into our service drive every year. Most are Ford Maverick pickups, along with a good number of F-150 PowerBoost trucks and Ford Escape Hybrid SUVs that have been commuting up US 67 for years. Owners usually start by asking whether a hybrid needs special care. Mostly it doesn't. A few parts behave differently, and knowing which ones keeps you from paying for work you don't need or skipping work you do. Quick answer: A Ford hybrid gets most of the same maintenance as a gas Ford: oil changes when the oil life monitor calls for them, tire rotations, filters, fluids and inspections. Regenerative braking means the brake pads often wear slower, but the brakes still need regular checks for rust, the 12 volt battery still needs testing, and Ford covers hybrid unique components for 8 years or 100,000 miles, whichever comes first. Hybrid parts coverage 8 years or 100,000 miles, per Ford Oil changes Still needed, per the oil life monitor Brakes Regen does much of the slowing In this post What stays the same Regenerative braking and brake wear The 12 volt battery Hybrid battery coverage and cooling How a hybrid visit works Is Maintaining a Ford Hybrid Different From a Gas Ford? Less than people expect. The Ford Maverick Hybrid pairs a 2.5L gas engine with electric motors and a power split electronic CVT. The F-150 PowerBoost pairs a V6 with an electric motor. Either way, there's a regular engine under the hood doing a lot of the work. That engine runs on oil, and the Intelligent Oil Life Monitor still decides when it's due. It may run fewer hours than a gas engine on the same trip, but oil also ages with time, so the once a year minimum still matters for a hybrid that mostly runs errands around Farmington. Same as any Ford: oil and filter, tire rotation, engine and cabin air filters, wipers, lights, fluid checks and a multi point inspection. Different on a hybrid: how the brakes wear, how the 12 volt battery is used, extra cooling for hybrid parts and a longer warranty on the hybrid system. Your Owner's Manual lists the schedule for your exact powertrain, and the Ford app shows reminders tied to your VIN. Why Do Brakes Wear Differently on a Ford Hybrid? When you lift off the gas or press lightly on the pedal, a Ford hybrid uses its electric motor as a generator. That slows the vehicle and puts energy back into the battery. Ford calls it regenerative braking, and it handles a big share of everyday stops. The friction brakes still do the hard stops, but they work a lot less in town. Pads often last longer as a result. The catch is that brakes used gently don't get hot enough to dry out, and moisture can let rust build on rotors, caliper slides and the pads themselves. Pads that look thick can still hide rusty slides on a hybrid that rarely brakes hard. That matters around here. Winter roads in St. Francois County get treated, spring stays wet, and that's how sticky hardware starts. Have the brakes inspected on schedule, not only when they squeal. Hybrid brake systems are also more complex to work on. Some keep the system pressurized and need a specific procedure before anyone touches the pads. That's a job for technicians trained on the system. Pads that look thick can still hide rusty slides on a hybrid that rarely brakes hard. What Does the 12 Volt Battery Do in a Ford Hybrid? A Ford hybrid carries two batteries. The big high voltage pack drives the motors. A regular 12 volt battery powers the computers, lights and accessories, and it's what wakes the system up and connects the high voltage side when you press the start button. So if the 12 volt battery goes flat, the vehicle won't power up, even with a full hybrid battery. Owners are sometimes surprised by that the first time. Short trips, long stretches parked and hot summers all wear on it, the same as in a gas car. Ask for a battery test at oil change visits, and especially before the first cold snap in November. Jump starting procedures differ by model, so check the Owner's Manual before hooking up cables. Do not wait on these Brake warning light or a change in pedal feel. Some variation is normal as regen and friction braking blend, but a warning light or a soft or hard pedal needs a look now. Grinding or pulling to one side. Rust on rotors or a sticking caliper is common on lightly used hybrid brakes. Slow wake up or electrical glitches. A weak 12 volt battery often shows up first as odd electrical behavior. Hybrid system warning messages. Book a scan rather than waiting to see if it clears. How Is a Ford Hybrid Battery Covered and Kept Cool? Ford's warranty treats hybrid parts separately. Hybrid and electric unique components, including the high voltage battery, are covered for 8 years or 100,000 miles, whichever comes first. That runs longer than the 3 year or 36,000 mile New Vehicle Limited Warranty and the 5 year or 60,000 mile powertrain coverage. Your Warranty Guide lists exactly which parts count. Heat is the other thing hybrid parts care about. The battery and the power electronics have their own cooling, and the setup varies by model. Some use a separate coolant loop with its own reservoir. A technician checks it during inspections, and the Owner's Manual lists any service interval. Farmington driver tip August afternoons in Farmington can climb into the 90s, and a Maverick Hybrid towing a small trailer to Big River or Lake Wappapello asks a lot of its cooling. Have coolant levels checked before the trip, and keep the grille and radiator clear of grass and bugs. Schedule Service See Service Specials What Happens When You Bring Your Ford Hybrid to Sam Scism Ford? 1 Book it your way Schedule online, in the Ford app or by calling 573-430-1693. Mention any warning messages or changes in brake feel. 2 Routine service first Oil and filter when due, tire rotation and the multi point inspection, the same as any Ford. 3 Hybrid checks Ford trained technicians check brake condition with an eye for rust, test the 12 volt battery and look over the hybrid cooling system. 4 Clear answers We'll tell you what's due now, what can wait and whether anything falls under Ford's hybrid coverage. Routine jobs like oil changes, tire rotations, battery work and wipers can also come to you. Ford Mobile Service handles those at your home or work, depending on distance and availability. The service desk is open 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM Monday through Friday, closed noon to 1:00 PM. Genuine Ford and Motorcraft parts go into every repair. Book it your way Schedule online, in the Ford app, or by phone at 573-430-1693. For oil changes, batteries and other routine work at your home or office, ask about Ford Mobile Service. Hybrid Basics Does a Ford hybrid still need oil changes? + It does, because the gas engine still uses oil. Follow the Intelligent Oil Life Monitor, and plan on at least one change a year even if you drive little. Is the F-150 PowerBoost serviced like a regular F-150? + Most items match a gas F-150, including oil, filters, tires and inspections. The hybrid system adds checks on cooling, brakes and the 12 volt battery. Where can I find the maintenance schedule for my Ford hybrid? + Your Owner's Manual lists it by powertrain, and the Ford app shows reminders for your VIN. Brakes and Regen Why does my hybrid's brake pedal feel different sometimes? + The system blends regenerative and friction braking, so feel can vary a little from stop to stop. A warning light or a sudden change in the pedal is a reason to come in. Do brake pads last longer on a Ford hybrid? + They often do, since regenerative braking handles much of the slowing. Life still depends on how and where you drive. Can rust affect hybrid brakes? + Light use lets moisture sit, so rotors, pads and caliper slides can corrode. Regular inspections catch it before it causes noise or uneven wear. The 12 Volt Battery Why won't my hybrid start if the big battery is charged? + The 12 volt battery has to wake the computers and connect the hybrid battery first. If it's dead, the system can't power up. Can I jump start a Ford hybrid? + Many can be jumped through the 12 volt system, but the steps vary by model. Follow the Owner's Manual for yours. Can Ford Mobile Service replace my 12 volt battery? + Battery service is on the Ford Mobile Service list, depending on distance and availability. Call 573-430-1693 to check your address. Warranty and Hybrid Battery How long is the Ford hybrid battery warranty? + Ford covers hybrid and electric unique components for 8 years or 100,000 miles, whichever comes first. Check your Warranty Guide for the full parts list. Does the hybrid system need its own coolant service? + Some Ford hybrids have a separate cooling loop for hybrid parts. Your Owner's Manual lists any interval, and we check it during inspections. Does Warranty Forever apply to Ford hybrids? + Warranty Forever covers listed engine, transmission and drive axle parts on vehicles sold with it at Sam Scism Ford, with maintenance and record requirements. Ask us how it works alongside Ford's hybrid coverage. Service at Sam Scism Ford Do your technicians work on Ford hybrids? + Our Ford trained technicians service the Maverick Hybrid, F-150 PowerBoost and Escape Hybrid using genuine Ford and Motorcraft parts. How do I book hybrid service in Farmington? + Use the Schedule Service page, the Ford app or call 573-430-1693. We're at 5019 Flat River Road. Can I wait while my hybrid is serviced? + The lounge has Wi-Fi, coffee and TV, and a courtesy shuttle is available. Loaner cars may be offered depending on the work. Order genuine hybrid parts Get genuine Ford and Motorcraft filters and fluids for your hybrid. Order Parts Meet the service team See what the Sam Scism Ford service center handles. Service Center

Service  |  Farmington, MO A Power Stroke will pull a gooseneck all day in July heat, but it asks for a few things a gas truck never does. Keep the diesel side of the checklist straight and the truck stays ready to work. Most of the diesel Super Duty trucks we see at Sam Scism Ford earn their keep. They haul hay out past Fredericktown, pull campers down to Clearwater Lake and drag equipment trailers up and down US 67 five days a week. The 6.7L Power Stroke V8 handles that kind of life well. It also comes with a short list of diesel only chores: diesel exhaust fluid, two fuel filters and a water separator, and an exhaust filter that has to clean itself. Skip those and the truck lets you know, usually at a bad time. Quick answer: A Ford Super Duty with the Power Stroke diesel needs DEF kept filled, the fuel water separator drained at every oil change or at least monthly per Ford, fuel filters replaced on the schedule in your Owner's Manual, and oil changed when the oil life monitor calls for it. Ford counts heavy towing, long idling and dusty roads as special operating conditions, so a Super Duty that works hard all summer should be serviced on the tougher schedule. Water separator Drain every oil change or monthly, per Ford Oil changes When the oil life monitor calls for it Tougher schedule Towing, long idling, dusty gravel roads In this post Keeping DEF filled and fresh Fuel filters and the water separator Oil changes and exhaust filter regen Towing in summer heat How a diesel visit works How Should You Handle DEF in a Ford Super Duty? Diesel exhaust fluid is a mix of urea and purified water. It gets sprayed into the exhaust, where it breaks down nitrogen oxides before they leave the tailpipe. It doesn't touch the engine or the fuel, and it goes in its own tank behind the blue cap. How fast you use it depends on how hard the truck works. A Super Duty pulling a loaded trailer burns more diesel and more DEF than one cruising empty. The cluster shows the DEF level and warns you as it drops, and the easy habit is to add some every time you fill up on fuel. Don't let it run dry. On trucks built under the emissions rules of the last several years, an empty DEF tank can put the engine into reduced power. The EPA has been revising how those limits work, but a working truck can't afford to find out on a gravel road with a trailer behind it. Summer is the season people forget about DEF storage. It lasts longest somewhere around 23 to 77 degrees, sealed and out of direct sun. A jug riding in the bed all July or sitting in a hot machine shed loses shelf life fast. Buy it in amounts you'll use, keep the cap tight and use fluid that meets the ISO 22241 standard, which Motorcraft DEF does. Why Do Fuel Filters and the Water Separator Matter on a Power Stroke Diesel? Diesel fuel does more than burn. It lubricates the high pressure fuel pump and the injectors on its way through. Ford's own parts guidance says water or dirt in the fuel can leave those parts under lubricated and lead to pump and injector failure. On a diesel, clean fuel is cheap insurance for the parts that cost the most to replace. That's why a 2017 or newer 6.7L Super Duty filters fuel twice. One filter sits on the engine. The other lives in the fuel conditioning module under the truck, which also holds the water separator. How often should the water separator be drained? Ford recommends draining it at every oil change or at least once a month, and right away if the Water in Fuel warning comes on. Humid Missouri summers and storage tanks at the farm can both put moisture in diesel, so this isn't a step to skip. How often do the fuel filters get replaced? Your Owner's Manual has the interval for your truck and model year. Ford ties it to the special operating conditions schedule when you tow a lot, idle for long stretches or run biodiesel blends, so a hard working truck will come due sooner. We use Motorcraft filters, which Ford builds with a water separating outer wrap. On a diesel, clean fuel is cheap insurance for the parts that cost the most to replace. How Do Oil Changes and Regeneration Work on a Ford Super Duty Diesel? Oil service on the 6.7L Power Stroke is set by the truck. The Intelligent Oil Life Monitor watches load, temperature, idle time and miles, then tells you when it's due. Towing and idling pull that date in, so don't be surprised if a summer of hauling brings the message up early. Use oil that meets the diesel specification in your Owner's Manual. Our technicians use oil that meets that spec with a Motorcraft filter and reset the monitor before the truck leaves. The exhaust filter is the other piece. It traps soot, and the truck burns that soot off on its own in a process called regeneration. Ford's owner information says it works more efficiently at a steady speed above about 30 mph, so regular highway miles help it finish. Trucks that spend most of their life idling at a job site or creeping around a farm have a harder time. Ford has published guidance for those trucks, which can see frequent regen attempts that don't complete and a Drive to Clean message. Many newer Super Duty models also let you start a parked regeneration from the cluster when the truck asks for one. Farmington driver tip If your truck lives on short runs between the house, the barn and town, give it a steady highway stretch every so often. A run up US 67 toward Festus or out MO 32 toward Ste. Genevieve at a constant speed gives a regeneration time to finish. Does Towing in a Missouri Summer Count as Severe Duty for a Ford Super Duty? It does. Ford's special operating conditions list includes extensive towing, long idling, extended low speed driving and dusty or off road use. A Super Duty that pulls a camper on weekends and hauls feed during the week checks most of those boxes, and July heat adds to the load on the cooling system. Before a long tow in hot weather, have the coolant level and condition checked, along with belts, hoses and the radiator and intercooler fins. Dust off county gravel clogs air filters faster than you'd think, and a restricted filter makes the engine work harder when it's already hot. Do not wait on these Water in Fuel warning. Drain the separator right away or bring the truck in. Running water through the fuel system risks the pump and injectors. Low DEF or DEF system messages. Add fluid or book a visit before the truck limits power. Exhaust filter or Drive to Clean messages that keep coming back. Repeated messages after highway driving point to a problem the technician needs to scan. Rising temperature while towing. Ease off, pull over safely if it climbs, and have the cooling system checked before the next trip. Schedule Service See Service Specials What Happens When You Bring Your Ford Super Duty to Sam Scism Ford? 1 Book it and tell us how the truck works Schedule online, in the Ford app or at 573-430-1693. Let us know if you tow, how often it idles and any messages you've seen. 2 Ford trained technicians check the diesel systems Oil and filter when due, the water separator, fuel filters by schedule, DEF level and any stored codes or regeneration history. 3 Multi point inspection Brakes, tires, cooling system, belts, hoses and the air filter all get a look, which matters more on a truck that tows. 4 Plain talk about what's next You'll leave knowing what was done and what's coming due, so you can plan service around harvest or a long trip. Service hours are 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM Monday through Friday, with the desk closed from noon to 1:00 PM. The lounge has Wi-Fi and coffee, and the courtesy shuttle can run you home or to work. Records matter on a diesel. Ford covers the Power Stroke engine for 5 years or 100,000 miles, whichever comes first, and every new Super Duty sold at Sam Scism Ford comes with Warranty Forever, which asks you to keep up the customary maintenance and hold on to the paperwork. Book it your way Schedule online, in the Ford app, or by phone at 573-430-1693. Ask how Warranty Forever covers listed engine, transmission and drive axle parts when you keep up the maintenance. DEF Questions How often do I need to add DEF to my Super Duty? + It depends on how much fuel you burn, so heavy towing uses it faster. Most owners add some at fuel stops and watch the level on the cluster. Can I buy DEF anywhere? + Any DEF that meets the ISO 22241 standard will do, and Motorcraft DEF meets it. Check that the container is sealed and not past its date. Where should I keep spare DEF at home? + Somewhere shaded and fairly cool, sealed, and not in the truck bed through summer. Heat shortens its shelf life. Fuel and Filters What does the Water in Fuel light mean? + The water separator has collected enough water that it needs to be drained. Ford says to drain it right away when that warning shows. How often should the fuel filters be changed on a 6.7L Power Stroke? + Follow the interval in your Owner's Manual for your model year. Towing, long idling and biodiesel use put you on the special operating conditions schedule, which comes due sooner. Why does Sam Scism Ford use Motorcraft fuel filters? + Ford designs them for the Power Stroke, including a water separating wrap and an air bleed feature. Fuel system parts cost too much to gamble on a filter. Oil and Regeneration How often does a Power Stroke diesel need an oil change? + The Intelligent Oil Life Monitor sets it based on how the truck is used. Expect it sooner during a summer of towing or a lot of idle time. Is it bad to let my diesel idle for a long time? + Ford lists extended idling as a special operating condition. Long idle periods also make it harder for the exhaust filter to finish cleaning itself. What should I do when an exhaust filter message comes on? + Follow the message, which often means a steady drive at highway speed or a parked regeneration if your truck offers it. If it keeps returning, book a visit. Towing and Heat Does towing change my Super Duty maintenance schedule? + Heavy or frequent towing moves you to Ford's special operating conditions schedule for many items. Your Owner's Manual shows which ones. What should be checked before a long summer tow? + Coolant, belts, hoses, the air filter, tires and brakes on the truck, plus trailer lights and tires. Book it a few days ahead so there's time to fix anything found. Do gravel roads affect a diesel? + Dusty roads clog the engine air filter faster, and Ford counts dusty driving as a tougher condition. Have the filter checked at each visit. Service and Coverage What factory warranty covers the Power Stroke engine? + Ford's Power Stroke Diesel coverage runs 5 years or 100,000 miles, whichever comes first. Your Warranty Guide lists the covered parts. Does Warranty Forever cover my diesel truck? + Warranty Forever covers listed engine, transmission and drive axle parts on vehicles sold with it at Sam Scism Ford, as long as you follow the customary maintenance and keep records. See the dealer for details. How do I book diesel service in Farmington? + Use the Schedule Service page, the Ford app or call 573-430-1693. The service center is at 5019 Flat River Road. Order diesel filters and fluids Get genuine Ford and Motorcraft filters and fluids for your Super Duty. Order Parts Meet the service team See what the Sam Scism Ford service center handles. Service Center

Service  |  Farmington, MO Gravel county roads are part of life around Farmington. They are also hard on filters, front end parts, tires and paint, and Ford's own schedule treats them as a tougher kind of driving. If you live off a county road in St. Francois County, you already know the routine. Dust hangs in the air behind every truck in July, and the washboard stretches rattle the change in your cup holder. All of that adds up on a vehicle. Ford's maintenance schedule has a separate section for vehicles driven mainly on unpaved or dusty roads, and plenty of Fords around Farmington, Bonne Terre and Fredericktown fit that description. This post covers what that section asks for and what our technicians look at when a gravel road Ford comes in. Quick answer: Ford's Owner's Manuals list dusty or sandy conditions, meaning mostly unpaved or dusty roads, as a special operating condition. That calls for more frequent cabin and engine air filter checks, regular inspection of wheels and related parts for noise, wear or looseness, more frequent tire rotation and tread checks, and oil changes sooner than the normal schedule. Engine air filter Ford range of 15,000 to 30,000 miles, sooner on dirt roads Cabin air filter Check often and replace as needed on dusty roads Your exact schedule Owner's Manual and the Ford app In this post Why gravel is hard on a Ford Ford's dusty conditions schedule Engine and cabin air filters Suspension, steering and tires Paint and underbody How a visit works Why Are Gravel and Dirt Roads Hard on a Ford? Three things happen on gravel that don't happen on pavement. Fine dust gets pulled into the engine intake and the cabin vents. Loose rock gets thrown up at the paint, the glass and everything underneath. And the constant small hits from washboard and potholes travel up through the tires into the suspension and steering. None of it breaks a Ford in a week. It just wears parts faster than the normal schedule assumes, which is why Ford writes a separate set of recommendations for it. What Does Ford's Dusty Conditions Schedule Call For? In the scheduled maintenance section of your Owner's Manual, Ford lists special operating conditions such as towing, extensive idling and dusty or sandy driving. The dusty or sandy table is meant for vehicles driven mainly on unpaved or dusty roads. In the Ford manuals we've checked, it lists these items: Cabin air filter: inspect frequently and replace as needed. Engine air filter: inspect on a shorter interval and replace as required. Wheels and related components: inspect for abnormal noise, wear, looseness or drag. Tires: rotate, inspect for wear and measure tread depth more often. Engine oil and filter: change sooner than the normal schedule. The exact mileage for each item varies by model and engine, so look up your own vehicle in the Owner's Manual or the Ford app. When you book with us, mention that you drive gravel most days and the advisor will set up the visit around the dusty schedule. None of it breaks a Ford in a week. It just wears parts faster than the normal schedule assumes. How Often Should You Change Air Filters on Gravel Roads? Ford's general guidance for the engine air filter is every 15,000 to 30,000 miles depending on the model. Ford also says to change it sooner if you drive on dirt roads or in very dusty conditions, or any time you see dirt and debris in the filter. On a truck that runs a gravel road twice a day, sooner is the normal case. A clogged engine air filter makes the engine work harder for the air it needs. The cabin air filter is the one you notice yourself. When it fills with dust, the AC and heat push less air, the windows fog more easily, and the cabin smells musty after a rain. Farmington driver tip Have both filters looked at in early summer and again in the fall. July and August on dry county roads load a filter quickly, and fall harvest on the farm roads around Perryville kicks up even more dust. Filters are quick to check during any oil change or multi point inspection, so there is no reason to guess. If you'd rather do it yourself, our parts department can get the right genuine Ford or Motorcraft filter for your VIN through Order Parts. What Suspension, Steering and Tire Checks Matter Most? Washboard gravel shakes the front end thousands of times a mile. Over time that shows up in ball joints, tie rod ends, wheel bearings, shocks and the rubber boots that keep dirt out of joints. That is why Ford's dusty table calls for checking wheels and related components for noise, wear, looseness and drag. Tires take the first hit. Sharp, broken gravel can cut tread and sidewalls, and a rock wedged in the tread can work its way in. Rotating on the dusty schedule keeps wear even, and a technician measuring tread depth will spot a cut before it becomes a flat on MO 32. Do not wait on these Clunks over bumps. A knock or clunk from the front end on rough roads can point to worn ball joints, tie rod ends or sway bar links. Have it inspected soon. Steering wander or a loose feel. If the wheel feels vague or the truck drifts on a straight road, worn steering parts may be the cause, and that affects control. Humming that changes with speed. A growl or hum that gets louder as you speed up can be a wheel bearing on its way out. Cut or bulging sidewall. A sidewall bulge or deep cut means the tire can fail suddenly. Switch to the spare and get it replaced. Schedule Service See Service Specials How Do You Protect Paint and the Underbody From Gravel? Rock chips are part of the deal on gravel, but you can keep them from turning into rust. Touch up chips on the hood, rocker panels and behind the wheels before moisture gets under the paint. Keeping some distance from the truck ahead cuts down on thrown rocks more than anything else you can do. Underneath, dust and mud pack into frame rails, around brake lines and around the fuel tank shield. Mud holds moisture against metal. A rinse of the underbody and wheel wells every few weeks in summer, and after any muddy stretch, keeps it from building up. In winter the same rinse washes off road treatment. When your Ford is on the lift for service, ask the technician to take a look underneath for packed mud, damaged shields or a brake line that took a rock. It takes a couple of minutes and catches problems you'd never see from the driveway. What Happens When You Bring a Gravel Road Ford to Sam Scism Ford? Tell the advisor how you drive. A truck that sees gravel every day gets a different conversation than one that lives on US 67. Our Ford trained technicians check the filters, rotate the tires, look over the suspension and steering, and give you a straight rundown of what is worn and what can wait. Service hours are Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, closed noon to 1:00 PM. The lounge has Wi-Fi and coffee, there's a courtesy shuttle, and loaner cars may be available depending on the work. Keep your receipts, because records of the customary maintenance are what keep Warranty Forever in force on vehicles that have it. Book it your way Schedule online, in the Ford app, or by phone at 573-430-1693. For filters, fluids and tire rotations, ask whether Ford Mobile Service can come to you. Ford's Dusty Conditions Schedule Does driving on gravel roads count as severe service for a Ford? + Ford lists dusty or sandy conditions as a special operating condition for vehicles driven mainly on unpaved or dusty roads. That table calls for more frequent filter, tire, wheel and oil service than the normal schedule. Where do I find the dusty conditions schedule for my Ford? + It is in the scheduled maintenance section of your Owner's Manual under special operating conditions. The Ford app also shows maintenance reminders for your vehicle. Should I change my oil more often on dirt roads? + Ford's dusty conditions table calls for oil and filter changes sooner than the normal interval. Your manual gives the exact mileage for your engine. Air and Cabin Filters How often should I replace my Ford engine air filter? + Ford's general range is every 15,000 to 30,000 miles depending on the model. Change it sooner if you drive dirt roads or see dirt and debris in the filter. What are the signs of a dirty cabin air filter? + Weak airflow from the vents, windows that fog easily and a musty smell when the AC first comes on are the usual clues. Can I replace my own Ford air filters? + On many Fords the engine and cabin filters are owner serviceable, and the steps are in your manual. Our parts department can match the right filter to your VIN. Suspension, Steering and Tires What front end parts wear faster on gravel? + Ball joints, tie rod ends, wheel bearings, shocks and the rubber boots that protect joints all take extra punishment from washboard roads. How often should tires be rotated on a gravel road Ford? + Ford's dusty table calls for more frequent rotation along with tread depth checks. Follow the mileage in your manual or let us set it up at each visit. Is a clunk over bumps something to worry about? + A front end clunk often points to worn suspension or steering parts. Get it inspected soon, since those parts affect how the vehicle steers and stops. Paint and Underbody How do I keep rock chips from rusting? + Touch up chips before moisture gets under the paint, and focus on the hood, rockers and the areas behind the wheels. Should I wash the underside of my truck? + Rinsing the underbody and wheel wells every few weeks in summer and after muddy drives keeps packed mud from holding moisture against metal. Can you check the underbody during service? + Ask while your Ford is on the lift and the technician can look for packed mud, damaged shields or a brake line that took a hit. Scheduling and Coverage How do I book service at Sam Scism Ford? + Schedule online, in the Ford app, or call 573-430-1693. We are at 5019 Flat River Road in Farmington. Can Ford Mobile Service change filters at my house? + Ford Mobile Service lists fluids and filters, tire rotations and diagnostic scans among its jobs, depending on distance and availability. Call the service desk to see what fits your address. Does gravel road driving affect Warranty Forever? + Warranty Forever asks you to follow the customary maintenance in your agreement and keep records. Driving gravel makes on time service even more important, so keep every receipt. Filters for gravel roads Order genuine Ford and Motorcraft engine and cabin air filters. Order Parts Meet the service team See what the Sam Scism Ford service center handles. Service Center

Service  |  Farmington, MO A recall letter is easy to miss, and some fixes now arrive over the air while the truck sits in the driveway. Learn how to check your Ford with the VIN and what to do with what you find. Plenty of open recalls aren't open because the owner ignored them. The letter went to an old address, or the truck changed hands twice, or the envelope got tossed with the junk mail. The owner never knew. Checking takes a couple of minutes and costs nothing. Newer Fords also get software updates over the air, and a few of those updates are recall fixes. Knowing how both pieces work keeps you from driving around with a problem Ford has already fixed. Quick answer: Enter your 17 character VIN in Ford's recall lookup on the Ford owner support site or in NHTSA's free recall lookup, which shows unrepaired recalls from at least the past 15 years. Safety recall repairs are done free at a Ford dealer no matter how old the vehicle is or how many owners it has had. Many current Fords also receive software updates over the air, and keeping Automatic Software Updates turned on lets some software recall fixes install without a shop visit. What you need Your 17 character VIN Recall repair cost No charge at a Ford dealer Software updates Over the air on current Fords, or at the dealer In this post Finding your VIN Checking for recalls Over the air updates Getting recalls fixed Used vehicles Where Do You Find Your Ford's VIN? Every recall check starts with the vehicle identification number, a 17 character code unique to your vehicle. Recalls are tied to VINs, not just to a model and year, because a recall may cover trucks built at one plant during a certain stretch of weeks. Windshield: look through the glass at the lower corner on the driver side. Door jamb: open the driver door and check the sticker on the frame. Paperwork: your registration and insurance card both list it. Snap a photo of it with your phone. You'll use it for recall checks, insurance calls and parts orders, and it saves walking out to the driveway every time. How Do You Check a Ford for Open Recalls? There are two good places to look, and both are free. 1 Ford's owner support site Ford's support site has a recall lookup. Type in your VIN and it shows any open Ford recalls for that vehicle. 2 NHTSA's recall lookup The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration runs a free VIN search on its website. It shows unrepaired safety recalls from at least the past 15 calendar years and covers the major automakers, so it works for every vehicle in your driveway, Ford or not. 3 Call the service desk If you'd rather skip the websites, call us at 573-430-1693 with your VIN. We can look up open recalls for your Ford and tell you what each one involves. Sometimes a recall is announced before the repair parts are ready. The lookup will show the recall as open with the remedy not yet available. Owners typically get a second notice when parts are ready, and you can call ahead to ask where things stand. Act on these right away Park outside or do not drive notices. If a recall letter or lookup tells you to park outside or stop driving the vehicle, follow it and call us to arrange the repair. Recalls tied to brakes, steering or airbags. Don't wait for your next oil change. Book a visit as soon as the remedy is available. Warning lights that match the recall. A new warning message on a vehicle with an open recall is a reason to come in now, not later. How Do Ford Over the Air Software Updates Work? Ford says every Ford and Lincoln it sells in North America today can receive over the air updates, and some vehicles have had the ability since the 2021 model year. Ford's support pages call these Ford Power-Up software updates. They arrive through the vehicle's built in cellular connection, so no cable and no shop visit. Updates go out in waves, and timing depends on the year, model and trim. Some add features or improve how things work. Others are behind the scenes fixes. When one installs, you'll usually get a message on the center screen or in the Ford app. Settings that help Automatic Software Updates is on by default. Leave it that way and set a Recurring Update Schedule in the Ford app or the vehicle settings menu, since some updates need the vehicle parked and off for a little while. Ford suggests a time you won't need it, like 1 a.m. Monday through Thursday. Ford's Software Updates page on its website lists updates sent in the last 180 days along with release notes. It's a quick way to see what changed after you notice a new message on the screen. Farmington driver tip Trucks that live in a metal pole barn or a shop building out in the county sometimes have weak cell signal, and updates can stall. If the Ford app keeps showing an update waiting, pull the truck outside overnight on your scheduled update night or let us know at your next visit. Checking takes a couple of minutes and costs nothing. Can a Recall Be Fixed Over the Air, or Do You Need the Dealer? It depends on the recall. When the fix is software only, Ford can send it over the air to vehicles with Automatic Software Updates turned on and a schedule set. If you haven't accepted the update, or the vehicle has trouble connecting, the dealer can install it. Recalls that need a new part, an inspection or hands on work still require a service visit. Those repairs are done at no cost to you. Safety recall work is free at a Ford dealer regardless of the vehicle's age or how many owners it has had. Schedule Recall Service Ford Mobile Service Letting the work come to you Some recall work doesn't need a trip to Flat River Road. Ford Mobile Service lists recall work and software updates among the jobs its technicians can do at your home or job site, depending on the repair, distance and availability. Ask when you call and we'll tell you whether your recall qualifies. Should You Check Recalls on a Used Ford? Every time. Recalls follow the VIN, not the owner, and the original letter almost certainly went to someone else. A used truck bought from a neighbor in Bonne Terre or off a lot in another county can carry an open recall the seller never heard about. Run the VIN through both lookups before you buy, or right after. The repair is still free to you as the new owner. If you're shopping our used inventory, ask your salesperson to pull the recall status for any vehicle you're considering. Service hours are 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM Monday through Friday, with the desk closed from noon to 1:00 PM. The lounge has Wi-Fi and coffee, there's a courtesy shuttle, and loaner cars may be available depending on the work. Book it your way Schedule online, in the Ford app, or by phone at 573-430-1693. Ask whether your recall or software update can be handled by Ford Mobile Service at your home or job. Recall Lookups How do I check if my Ford has a recall? + Enter your 17 character VIN in Ford's recall lookup on its owner support site or in NHTSA's free recall search. You can also call the Sam Scism Ford service desk at 573-430-1693. How far back does the NHTSA recall lookup go? + It shows unrepaired safety recalls from at least the past 15 calendar years. Major automakers report to it, so it works for non Ford vehicles too. Why didn't I get a recall letter? + Letters go to the address on file, which may be an old one or a previous owner's. Checking by VIN a couple of times a year catches what the mail misses. Cost and Coverage Do I have to pay for a Ford recall repair? + Safety recall repairs are done at no charge at a Ford dealer. That holds no matter the vehicle's age or how many owners it has had. Is a recall repair free if I bought my Ford used? + It is. Recalls follow the VIN, so the current owner gets the repair at no cost. What if the recall parts aren't available yet? + The lookup will show the remedy as not yet available. A second notice usually follows when parts are ready, and our service desk can tell you where things stand. Software Updates Can my Ford get software updates over the air? + Ford says every Ford it sells in North America today can receive over the air updates, and some vehicles have had the ability since the 2021 model year. How do I make sure my Ford installs updates? + Keep Automatic Software Updates turned on and set a Recurring Update Schedule in the Ford app or vehicle settings. Pick a time when the vehicle is parked. Where can I see what an update changed? + Ford's Software Updates page lists updates from the last 180 days with release notes. A message on the screen or in the Ford app usually confirms an install. Getting the Work Done Can a recall be fixed with a software update? + Software only recalls can be sent over the air when automatic updates are on. Recalls that need parts or hands on work still require a service visit. Can Ford Mobile Service do recall work at my house? + Recall work and software updates are on the Mobile Service list, depending on the repair, distance and availability. Call us with your VIN to check. How long does a recall repair take? + It varies by recall, from a quick software flash to a longer parts job. We'll give you a time estimate when you book. Scheduling and Visits How do I schedule a recall repair in Farmington? + Book on our Schedule Service page, in the Ford app, or by phone at 573-430-1693. Sam Scism Ford is at 5019 Flat River Road. Can you check for recalls during an oil change? + We check for open recalls and pending updates tied to your VIN on regular service visits, and let you know what it takes to get them done. Is a loaner available during recall work? + Loaner cars may be available depending on the work, and the courtesy shuttle and waiting lounge are there for shorter jobs. Set your update schedule Keep Automatic Software Updates on and pick an update time in the Ford app. Ford App Meet the service team See what the Sam Scism Ford service center handles. Service Center

Service  |  Farmington, MO Summer heat and trailer season are coming. A cooling system check in March costs a lot less than a tow off the shoulder of US 67 in July. Most people don't think about their cooling system until the temperature gauge climbs or steam rolls out from under the hood. By then it's usually a bigger repair than it had to be. Your Ford's engine makes a lot of heat, and the cooling system's job is to carry it away. Coolant runs through the engine, out through hoses to the radiator, and back again, pushed along by the water pump and controlled by the thermostat. When one piece wears out, the rest of the system can't keep up. Spring is the right time to check it, before the hot, humid weeks and the boat trips to Lake Wappapello and Clearwater Lake. Quick answer: Watch for a rising temperature gauge, a low coolant message, a sweet smell or colored puddles under the front of the vehicle. Ford specifies the coolant type and replacement interval for your engine in the Owner's Manual, and on many Fords the first change comes around 100,000 miles or a set number of years. A spring inspection of hoses, the water pump and radiator is cheap insurance before summer towing. Coolant type The Motorcraft coolant your Owner's Manual specifies Replacement Per the Owner's Manual, often first at about 100,000 miles Check before Summer heat and towing season In this post Signs of trouble Coolant type and intervals Hoses, pump and radiator Towing in summer heat How a visit works What Are the Signs Your Ford Is Overheating? The temperature gauge is your first warning. On most Fords it sits near the middle once the engine warms up and barely moves after that. If it starts climbing toward hot, or a coolant temperature warning comes up on the cluster, the system is losing the fight. Other signs show up before the gauge moves. A sweet, syrupy smell after a drive often means coolant is leaking onto something hot. Orange, yellow or green drips under the front of the truck are coolant too. A heater that blows cool air on a cold morning can point to low coolant. Coolant doesn't get used up like fuel. If the level keeps dropping, it's going somewhere. Pull over for these Gauge climbing or a temperature warning. Pull over somewhere safe and shut the engine off. Driving an overheated engine can warp a cylinder head or blow a head gasket. Steam from under the hood. Stay back and let it cool. Never open the coolant reservoir cap on a hot engine, because the system is under pressure and can spray scalding coolant. Milky or tan oil on the dipstick. Coolant mixing with oil is a reason to stop driving and call us. It can mean a failing gasket or water pump. Low coolant message that keeps coming back. Coolant doesn't get used up like fuel. If the level keeps dropping, it's going somewhere, and that needs a diagnosis. What Coolant Does Your Ford Use, and How Often Should It Be Changed? Ford fills its vehicles at the factory with Motorcraft coolant made to a specific Ford specification, and many recent models use Motorcraft Orange. Ford has also approved Motorcraft Yellow for servicing many vehicles that came with orange coolant, so don't be surprised if the color in your reservoir changes after a visit. The service order will note what we used. What you shouldn't do is grab whatever jug is on sale at the parts store. Mixing coolant types can cut the protection against corrosion that the system depends on. Your Owner's Manual lists the exact coolant for your engine. Change intervals vary by model and engine. On many Fords, the schedule calls for the first coolant replacement at around 100,000 miles or a set number of years, then on a shorter cycle after that. Ford's own example for a 2019 Ford Escape is the first change at six years or 100,000 miles, then every three years or 50,000 miles. Check the scheduled maintenance section of your Owner's Manual, or ask us to look it up by VIN. Coolant doesn't get used up like fuel. If the level keeps dropping, it's going somewhere. Which Cooling System Parts Wear Out? Coolant is only half of it. The parts that carry it wear with heat and age, and a cooling system inspection looks at each one. Hoses: rubber hoses soften, swell or crack over time. A hose that feels mushy or shows cracks at the clamps gets replaced before it splits on a hot day. Water pump: it keeps coolant moving. Signs of wear include a weep or drip near the front of the engine, a whine or grinding noise, or slow overheating. On some Ford V6 engines the pump sits inside the engine, driven by the timing chain, so a failing pump can leak into the oil instead of onto the ground. Radiator: fins clogged with bugs, chaff and road dirt can't shed heat. Corrosion and seam leaks show up as crusty residue or drips. Thermostat: a stuck thermostat can make an engine run hot or never warm up. Reservoir cap: the cap holds pressure in the system. A worn seal lets coolant boil off sooner. Farmington driver tip If you drive gravel roads or work around hay fields, check the front of the radiator a couple of times a summer. Dust and chaff pack into the fins and cut airflow right when you need it most. Schedule Service See Service Specials Why Does Summer Towing Put Extra Strain on the Cooling System? Pulling a trailer makes the engine work harder, and harder work means more heat. Add a 95 degree July afternoon and humidity, and the cooling system has very little room for a weak hose or a clogged radiator. Ford's maintenance schedule counts towing as a tougher operating condition for that reason. The hills are where it shows. Pulling a camper up the grades on MO 21 through the Arcadia Valley or a bass boat south toward Wappapello on a hot afternoon will push the temperature gauge on a truck with a weak system. A healthy system keeps the needle steady. If you plan to tow this summer, book the cooling system check now. It pairs well with the transmission and brake checks a towing truck needs anyway. What Happens During a Cooling System Service at Sam Scism Ford? 1 Tell us what you've noticed Book online, in the Ford app or at 573-430-1693, and mention any warnings, smells, puddles or gauge changes. 2 Inspection and pressure test Ford trained technicians check coolant level and condition, inspect the hoses, water pump, radiator and cap, and pressure test the system to find leaks that only show up when it's hot. 3 Coolant replacement if it's due If your schedule calls for it, the old coolant is drained and replaced with the Motorcraft coolant specified for your Ford. 4 Review what we found You get a clear rundown of what was done and anything coming due, so you can plan before summer. Wait in the lounge with Wi-Fi and coffee, ride the courtesy shuttle, or ask about a loaner depending on the work. Service hours are 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM Monday through Friday, closed noon to 1:00 PM. For routine items like fluids, filters and diagnostic scans, Ford Mobile Service may be able to come to you, depending on distance and availability. Book it your way Schedule online, in the Ford app, or by phone at 573-430-1693. Ask how on time maintenance keeps Warranty Forever coverage on listed engine parts in force. Overheating What should I do if my Ford starts to overheat? + Pull over somewhere safe, shut the engine off and let it cool. Don't open the coolant cap while it's hot, and call us or roadside assistance before driving farther. Can I keep driving with the temperature gauge high? + Driving an overheating engine can warp the cylinder head or damage the head gasket, which turns a hose repair into a major one. Why does my heater blow cold air in winter? + Low coolant, a stuck thermostat or air in the system can all cause it. Have it checked, since the same problem can lead to overheating. Coolant What color coolant does my Ford use? + Many recent Fords are factory filled with Motorcraft Orange, and Ford approves Motorcraft Yellow for servicing many of those vehicles. Your Owner's Manual lists the exact specification. Can I mix different coolants? + Mixing types can weaken corrosion protection, so stick with the Motorcraft coolant Ford specifies for your engine. How often does Ford coolant need to be replaced? + It depends on the model and engine. Many Fords call for the first change around 100,000 miles or a set number of years, then on a shorter cycle. Parts and Repairs How do I know if my water pump is failing? + Watch for a drip near the front of the engine, a whining or grinding noise, or a slow climb in temperature. On some V6 engines, coolant in the oil can be a sign. How long do radiator hoses last? + Hoses wear with heat and age rather than a set mileage. A technician squeezes them during inspection and replaces any that feel soft, swollen or cracked. Is a coolant leak always visible? + Some leaks only appear when the system is hot and under pressure, and internal leaks never reach the ground. A pressure test finds them. Towing and Summer Should I check my cooling system before towing season? + Spring is a good time, because towing in summer heat gives a weak system nowhere to hide. Ford treats towing as a tougher operating condition in its maintenance schedules. Does the AC affect engine temperature? + The AC adds load and its condenser sits in front of the radiator, so a clogged front end can affect both. Our June 2025 AC article covers the cabin side in more detail. What can I do on a long grade with a trailer? + Keep an eye on the temperature gauge and give the truck a lower gear on long climbs. If the needle rises past normal, pull over safely and let it cool. Scheduling and Coverage How do I schedule cooling system service in Farmington? + Book on our Schedule Service page, in the Ford app or by calling 573-430-1693. We're at 5019 Flat River Road. Does Warranty Forever cover the water pump? + Warranty Forever covers listed engine, transmission and drive axle components when you keep up the maintenance in your agreement. Ask our service advisors which engine parts are on the list. Are there cooling system service specials? + Current offers are posted on our Service and Parts Specials page. They change through the year, so check before you book. Meet the service team See what the Sam Scism Ford service center handles. Service Center Motorcraft coolant and parts Order genuine Ford and Motorcraft parts for your vehicle. Order Parts

Service  |  Farmington, MO The 10 speed automatic in a lot of Fords works hard without saying much. This is what it needs, why towing changes that, and which shift problems mean you should come see us. Most people don't think about the transmission until something feels off. Maybe a shift lands harder than usual pulling out of a lot on Karsch Boulevard. Or the engine revs a beat too long before the next gear catches on the climb out of town. Pay attention to those little changes, especially in January. A lot of current Fords use a 10 speed automatic that'll last a long time if it's cared for. Catching a problem early is usually the difference between a small fix and a big one. Quick answer: Ford's 10 speed automatic is in trucks and SUVs like the Ford F-150, Ford Ranger, Ford Bronco, Ford Explorer and Ford Expedition, and your fluid service interval is in the Owner's Manual and the Ford app. Ford's schedules treat towing as tougher duty, so check which column fits how you drive. Harsh or delayed shifts, slipping, shudder, leaks or a transmission warning are reasons to book an inspection. Common in F-150, Ranger, Bronco, Explorer, Expedition Fluid service Per your Owner's Manual and the Ford app Tougher duty Towing, heavy loads, extended idling In this post The 10 speed basics When fluid service is due Towing as tougher duty What a transmission visit looks like Records and coverage How Does the Ford 10 Speed Automatic Work? Ford and General Motors developed the 10 speed automatic together, and Ford first put it in the 2017 Ford F-150 with the 3.5L EcoBoost. Versions of it now show up across the lineup, including the Ford Ranger, Ford Bronco, Ford Explorer, Ford Expedition, Ford Mustang and Ford Transit, with heavier duty 10 speeds in the Ford Super Duty. More gears give the computer more choices. Climbing or towing, it keeps the engine where it pulls well. At highway speed it drops into a tall gear and lets the engine loaf. You'll feel it shift more often, and sometimes skip gears. That's normal. It's also run by software that learns how you drive and adjusts shift timing over time. Some shift complaints get fixed with a software update from Ford, no hardware repair at all, which is one reason to start at a Ford dealer with factory diagnostic tools. How Often Does a Ford Transmission Need Fluid Service? Every Ford's scheduled maintenance section lists when the transmission fluid should be changed. The interval depends on the model, the transmission and how you use the vehicle. Your Owner's Manual has the official number, and the Ford app shows reminders tied to your VIN. With normal driving, today's transmission fluid is made to go a long time, so this isn't an every oil change thing. The schedule can change when your driving falls under Ford's special operating conditions. Plenty of trucks around Farmington do. Use the right fluid: The 10 speed calls for the specific fluid Ford lists. The wrong type can cause shift problems. Check for leaks: We look at the pan, lines and cooler connections during routine visits. Look at the condition: Dark fluid, or fluid that smells burnt, means the transmission's been working hard. Keep records: Documented transmission service backs up any warranty or powertrain coverage you have. The schedule can change when your driving falls under Ford's special operating conditions. Why Does Towing Count as Severe Duty? Towing puts more heat into a transmission than almost anything else you'll do with a truck. Heat is what breaks the fluid down. That's why Ford's maintenance schedules treat towing a trailer as a special operating condition. Heavy hauling, a lot of idling, stop and go driving and dusty gravel roads can count too. If that sounds like your week, have a service advisor check your schedule against how you really use the truck. How can you take it easier on the transmission when towing? Use Tow/Haul mode if your truck has it. It holds gears longer so the transmission isn't hunting on hills. Stay within the towing and payload ratings on your door jamb label and in the Owner's Manual for your configuration. If a transmission temperature message shows up on the cluster, give it a break. Let the truck warm up for a minute on very cold mornings before putting a heavy load on it. Farmington driver tip Pulling a camper to Johnson's Shut-Ins or a cattle trailer along MO 32 means long climbs under steady load. If you tow a lot, have the fluid checked every visit and ask whether your schedule calls for service sooner. Don't wait on these Harsh or delayed shifts. A clunk into gear, a bang between gears or a pause before it moves needs a look. Slipping or flaring. Engine speed rises without the vehicle speeding up to match, often during a shift. Shudder or vibration. A shake at steady speed or light throttle can point to a torque converter or fluid concern. Leaks or a burning smell. Spots under the truck, or a burnt smell after towing, mean the fluid needs attention. Warning lights or messages. A transmission warning, overheat message or check engine light should be scanned soon. Schedule Service See Service Specials What Happens When You Bring Your Ford in for Transmission Service? We start by finding the cause. Nobody's guessing with a transmission. 1 Tell us what you feel Book online, in the Ford app or by calling 573-430-1693, and tell us when it happens. Cold or warm, towing or empty, which gear or speed. 2 Scan and road test Our Ford trained technicians check for stored codes and software updates, then drive it to feel the problem for themselves. 3 Inspect the fluid and hardware Fluid level and condition, leaks and cooler lines all get checked before we recommend anything. 4 Review the options We'll explain what we found in plain terms. It might be a software update, a fluid service or a repair with genuine Ford and Motorcraft parts. You can wait in the lounge with Wi-Fi, coffee and popcorn, or take the courtesy shuttle. Loaners may be available depending on the job. The service center is open 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM Monday through Friday, closed from noon to 1:00 PM. How Does Transmission Care Protect Your Coverage? A transmission is one of the more expensive things on a vehicle to fix, so the paperwork behind it matters. Ford's factory powertrain warranty covers it for a set period on new vehicles, and a maintenance history backs up any claim. If you bought your vehicle here with Warranty Forever, there's more. The plan covers listed engine, transmission and drive axle parts for as long as you own the vehicle, regardless of miles, as long as you follow the customary maintenance in the agreement and keep records. Getting transmission service done on time, with a repair order to show for it, is your end of that deal. Book it your way Schedule online, in the Ford app, or by phone at 573-430-1693. Ask how Warranty Forever covers listed transmission parts when you keep up the maintenance. The 10 Speed Automatic Which Fords have the 10 speed automatic? + Versions of it are used in the Ford F-150, Ford Ranger, Ford Bronco, Ford Explorer, Ford Expedition, Ford Mustang and Ford Transit, with heavier duty 10 speeds in the Ford Super Duty. Check your window sticker or Owner's Manual to confirm yours. Is it normal for my Ford to shift so often? + Lots of shifting and some skipped gears is just how a 10 speed works. A hard bang, slipping or shudder isn't, so get that checked. Can a software update fix shifting problems? + Sometimes. Ford fixes some shift concerns with software, and we can check whether an update applies to your VIN. Fluid Service How often should Ford transmission fluid be changed? + It depends on your model, your transmission and how you drive. The number's in the scheduled maintenance section of your Owner's Manual, and towing can change which one applies. Can I check my transmission fluid at home? + Many newer Ford transmissions don't have a regular dipstick, so a technician checks the level with the vehicle on a lift. You can still keep an eye out for leaks under the truck. What happens if the wrong fluid is used? + The 10 speed is built around the fluid Ford specifies, and the wrong type can hurt shift quality and wear. Our technicians use the right fluid for your transmission. Towing and Heavy Use Does towing really affect my transmission? + It does. The extra load means extra heat, and that's why Ford lists it as a special operating condition. Should I use Tow/Haul mode? + If your truck has it, use it with a trailer. Holding gears longer is easier on the transmission. What should I do if a transmission overheat message appears? + Pull over when it's safe and let it cool down. Then have it inspected before you tow again. Warning Signs What does a slipping transmission feel like? + The engine revs up but you don't speed up to match, usually during or right after a shift. Is a shudder at highway speed a transmission problem? + It can be, usually the torque converter or fluid. Tires and driveline parts can feel a lot like it, though, and a road test with a technician will tell. Can I keep driving with a transmission warning light? + Keep it to short trips and get it in soon. Driving on a transmission fault is how a small repair turns into a big one. Service at Sam Scism Ford How do I schedule transmission service in Farmington? + Book online or in the Ford app, or call the service desk at 573-430-1693. We're at 5019 Flat River Road. Does Warranty Forever cover the transmission? + On vehicles sold with Warranty Forever, listed transmission components are covered for as long as you own the vehicle when you follow the customary maintenance and keep records. See the dealer for details. Will I have a ride while my Ford is in the shop? + We run a courtesy shuttle, and loaner cars may be available depending on the work. Order genuine fluid and parts Request Motorcraft fluids and genuine Ford parts for your vehicle. Order Parts Meet the service team See what the Sam Scism Ford service center handles. Service Center

Service  |  Farmington, MO Two parts can look identical in the box and still not be the same part. This is where genuine Ford and Motorcraft parts are worth it and where aftermarket is fine. Somebody at the farm supply store swears by a certain brand of brake pads. A website lists a filter for half of what the dealer charges. Your brother in law has put cheap parts on his truck for years and says it runs fine. If you own a Ford around Farmington, you've heard some version of this, usually right when something needs replacing. The truth's somewhere in the middle. Genuine Ford and Motorcraft parts fit right and carry a real warranty, and on some jobs we wouldn't use anything else. Other times a good aftermarket part is a perfectly reasonable call. Quick answer: Genuine Ford and Motorcraft parts are built to Ford's specifications for your vehicle and carry a two year, unlimited mileage parts warranty that includes limited labor when a Ford dealer installs them on a customer paid repair. Aftermarket parts can be fine for some items and older vehicles, but quality varies, and a failure caused by a non Ford part may not be covered under warranty. Ford parts warranty 2 years, unlimited miles, limited labor included Who honors it Any Ford or Lincoln dealer, with the dated receipt Parts Center 573-430-1680 or order online In this post Genuine vs aftermarket Why fit matters The parts warranty When aftermarket is fine The Sam Scism Ford Parts Center What Is the Difference Between Genuine Ford, Motorcraft and Aftermarket Parts? Genuine Ford parts are the parts Ford specifies for its vehicles, sold through Ford dealers. Motorcraft is Ford's own parts brand for the everyday stuff, like oil and air filters, brake pads, batteries, wiper blades and fluids. Both are made to Ford specs, and we match them to your vehicle by its VIN. Aftermarket parts come from other companies. Some are made to a high standard. Some are made to a price. A box that says it fits a Ford F-150 might be covering several model years and engines, each with small differences in mounting points or sensors. That's where most parts trouble starts. Say a brake pad fits but uses a different friction material, or a sensor plugs in but reads a little off. You'll find out later as noise, a warning light or a part that wears out early. Why Does Fit Matter So Much on a Modern Ford? A newer Ford ties a lot of systems together. The driver assist cameras, the battery management and the engine controls all expect parts to behave the way Ford designed them. When something is a little off, the vehicle notices. Brakes: Pad material and shims change how the truck stops and how fast the rotors wear. You'll feel it on a loaded truck coming down a long grade. Batteries: Many newer Fords keep a close eye on the battery, so the replacement should match the type and size Ford specifies. Filters: An oil filter's bypass valve and media are matched to the engine and its oil life monitor. Sensors and electrical parts: Small differences can set off warning lights or confuse driver assist. Body and glass: Panel gaps and camera or sensor mounts need to line up. When something is a little off, the vehicle notices. Farmington driver tip If your truck pulls a trailer down the long grades on US 67 or hauls hay across gravel county roads, your brakes and suspension work harder than most. That's where genuine Ford or Motorcraft parts are easiest to justify. What Warranty Comes With Genuine Ford and Motorcraft Parts? Ford and Motorcraft parts carry a two year, unlimited mileage Service Parts Warranty. There are no commercial exceptions, so your work truck is covered the same as the family SUV. If a Ford dealer installs the part on a customer paid repair, labor's included too, with limits. Some components get longer coverage. Ford lists more protection on certain assemblies, like gas and diesel engines, transmissions and sheet metal, so ask the Parts Center about the specific part you're buying. Hang on to the receipt. Any Ford or Lincoln dealer may honor the parts warranty, which is handy if something fails while you're on the road. Bring the original dated receipt or repair order along with the part. Watch for these after a cheap repair New warning lights. A light that appears right after a part replacement often means a mismatch or a part that isn't reading right. Brake noise or pulsing. Squeals, grinding or a pulsing pedal soon after a brake job can mean the wrong pad or rotor for your vehicle. Repeat failures. Paying for the same job twice in a year costs more than doing it once with the right part. Order Parts Schedule Service When Is an Aftermarket Part a Reasonable Choice? More often than you'd think. Floor liners, bed mats and other accessories are fair game, and so are cosmetic pieces. On an older, high mileage vehicle that's past its warranty years, a good aftermarket brand can do the job fine. Federal rules give you some room here too. The Federal Trade Commission has long said that using an aftermarket or recycled part doesn't by itself void your vehicle's warranty. If that part causes a failure, though, fixing the damage may not be covered. How do you pick a good aftermarket part? Stick with established brands that publish fit information by VIN, not just by model. Check what warranty the part carries and who honors it. Don't go cheap on brakes, steering, suspension or electrical parts for something you drive every day. Get the genuine part price from our Parts Center before you decide, so you're comparing real numbers. What Can the Sam Scism Ford Parts Center Do for You? Our Parts Center at 5019 Flat River Road supplies genuine Ford and Motorcraft parts to our own service department and to owners who'd rather do the work themselves. Give the counter your VIN and they'll match the right part to your exact vehicle. No guessing which filter fits. You can request parts through the Order Parts page or call 573-430-1680. If you'd rather have us put it on, the service team uses genuine Ford and Motorcraft parts. Current offers are on the Service and Parts Specials page. Some routine parts can be installed right where you are. Ford Mobile Service can handle batteries, brakes, wipers, filters and fluids at your home or office, depending on distance and availability. Book it your way Schedule online, in the Ford app, or by phone at 573-430-1693. For routine work at home or the office, ask about Ford Mobile Service. Genuine Ford and Motorcraft Parts What is Motorcraft? + Motorcraft is Ford's own parts brand, made to Ford specifications for maintenance and repair items like filters, brakes, batteries, wipers and fluids. Are genuine Ford parts the same ones used at the factory? + Genuine Ford parts are the parts Ford specifies for its vehicles. The Parts Center can match the correct one to your VIN. Do genuine parts cost more than aftermarket? + Up front, a lot of the time, but the gap depends on the part. Get a current price from the Parts Center and check the specials page before you compare. Parts Warranty How long is the Ford parts warranty? + Ford and Motorcraft parts carry a two year, unlimited mileage Service Parts Warranty, and some assemblies have longer coverage. Does the parts warranty cover labor? + Limited labor is included when a Ford dealer installs the part on a customer paid repair. For parts you buy over the counter, the warranty terms apply with your dated receipt. Can another Ford dealer handle a parts warranty claim? + Any Ford or Lincoln dealer may honor it. Just bring the original receipt or repair order. Aftermarket Parts Will aftermarket parts void my Ford warranty? + Under FTC guidance, using one doesn't void the warranty on its own. Damage that part causes may not be covered, though. When is aftermarket a good idea? + Accessories and cosmetic pieces, mostly, plus parts for older vehicles that are out of warranty. Stick with a reputable brand. Which parts should I avoid buying cheap? + On anything you drive every day, we'd spend the money on brakes, steering, suspension and electrical. Do It Yourself Owners Can I buy parts and install them myself? + Sure. The Parts Center sells genuine Ford and Motorcraft parts over the counter. Keep the receipt so your parts warranty's covered. What information should I have when I call the Parts Center? + Your 17 digit VIN. With it, the counter can pull the exact part for your model year, engine and trim. How do I order Ford parts online from Sam Scism Ford? + Send a request through the Order Parts page on our website, or just call 573-430-1680. Installation and Service Does the Sam Scism Ford service department use genuine parts? + They do. Ford trained technicians install genuine Ford and Motorcraft parts. Can a part be installed at my home? + Ford Mobile Service handles batteries, brakes, wipers, filters and fluids at a location you choose, depending on distance and availability. Will you install a part I bought somewhere else? + Call the service desk at 573-430-1693 before you book. Policies on customer supplied parts, and the warranty on that work, can vary. Save on parts and service Check current parts and service offers from our team. Parts Specials Rather we install it Meet the service team and see what they handle. Service Center

Service  |  Farmington, MO One ice storm will find the weak spot on any truck or SUV. Run through these seven checks before the first hard freeze in St. Francois County. Winter here usually isn't months of deep snow. It's a 60 degree afternoon and then freezing rain overnight. Every so often a cold snap parks us in the single digits for a few days. That back and forth is rough on vehicles, and whatever's weak tends to quit on the coldest morning of the year. A little prep in late October or November heads off most of it. These are the seven things we look at on a Ford before winter. Some you can check in your own driveway. Quick answer: Before winter, have your Ford's battery tested, confirm the coolant protects against hard freezes, set tire pressure cold and check tread, replace streaky wipers and fill up with winter washer fluid, make sure the heater and defrost work, test four wheel drive on a loose surface, and pack an emergency kit. Most of that fits in one service visit. Checklist items Seven, from battery to emergency kit Tire pressure in cold Can drop 1 to 2 psi per 10 degrees Good time to do it Late October through November In this post Battery and coolant Tires and pressure Wipers, washer fluid and defrost Four wheel drive check Emergency kit What Should You Check Under the Hood Before Winter? Start with the battery and the coolant. Neither one gives you much warning before it fails, and both are quick to test. 1. Battery Cold doesn't usually kill a healthy battery. It finds the weak ones. A battery that cranked fine all summer can leave you stuck on a frosty January morning, and a quick test will show whether it's got enough left for winter. While the hood's up, look for white or green crust on the terminals and make sure the battery's held down tight. If the battery's getting older or starts have felt slow lately, get it tested before the first cold snap instead of after. Ford Mobile Service can test or replace it at your house or office, depending on distance and availability. 2. Coolant Coolant keeps the engine from overheating in summer and freezing in winter. The mix needs to protect well below anything we see here, and the type has to match what Ford specifies for your engine. Mixing types can cause trouble. Check your Owner's Manual or just let a technician handle it. Check the level in the reservoir with the engine cold, never with it hot. Look for crusty residue around hoses, the radiator and the water pump area. Ask for a freeze protection test during your fall service visit. Why Does Tire Pressure Drop When It Gets Cold? Air contracts as it cools. So your tire pressure drops on its own as fall turns to winter, even if there's no leak. 3. Tires and pressure Goodyear says pressure can drop 1 or 2 psi for every 10 degrees of temperature change. That's why the tire light so often pops on the first cold morning of fall. Low tires don't grip as well, and they wear faster. Set pressure to the number on the label inside the driver's door jamb, not the maximum printed on the tire sidewall, and check it in the morning before you drive. Look at the tread while you're down there, too. Tires that felt fine on dry summer roads can slide around on wet leaves and black ice. Farmington driver tip Bridges and overpasses on US 67 and MO 32 freeze before the road around them. On cold mornings, figure the bridge over the Big River or any creek crossing is slick, even if the rest of the road just looks wet. Set pressure to the number on the label inside the driver's door jamb, not the maximum printed on the tire sidewall. How Do You Keep Your Windshield Clear in an Ice Storm? Mostly it's good blades and washer fluid that won't freeze. A defroster that blows good and hot helps a lot too. 4. Wipers and washer fluid Summer heat is hard on wiper blades. If yours streak or chatter, replace them before the salt trucks come out. Fill the reservoir with a winter washer fluid rated below freezing. Summer fluid or plain water can freeze in the lines. Don't use the wipers to break ice off the glass. Scrape and defrost first, then turn them on. Frozen blades tear fast, and it's hard on the wiper motor. 5. Heater and defrost On a cool fall morning, run the heater and every defrost setting. If the heat's weak, the fan only works on some speeds or the windows fog and won't clear, get it checked now. Sometimes it's just a clogged cabin air filter, which is a quick swap. On equipped vehicles, the Ford app (formerly FordPass) lets you start the engine from the kitchen so the defroster gets a head start before you walk outside. Book a Winter Check See Service Specials How Should You Test Four Wheel Drive Before It Snows? Test it on a loose surface while it's still mild out, so there's time to fix anything you find. 6. Four wheel drive Plenty of trucks around here go months without ever shifting into four wheel drive. You don't want to find out it's not working on an icy hill on a gravel county road. 1 Find a loose surface Use a gravel lot or dirt drive, not dry pavement. A lot of part time four wheel drive systems aren't meant for dry, hard surfaces. 2 Shift into four wheel drive Follow the steps in your Owner's Manual for 4H, 4L or Auto mode, and watch for the indicator on the instrument cluster. 3 Drive a short loop Listen for clunks, grinding or binding, and make sure the indicator confirms each mode. 4 Shift back and confirm Return to two wheel drive and make sure the indicator goes out. If the indicator flashes or the system won't engage, have it checked before winter. Your maintenance schedule also lists transfer case and axle fluid intervals for your model. What Belongs in a Winter Emergency Kit? Keep the tank close to full and keep a few basics behind the seat. 7. Emergency kit An ice storm can close roads and leave you sitting for hours. NHTSA recommends keeping the tank close to full in winter and carrying these: A snow shovel, broom and ice scraper Sand or kitty litter for traction if you get stuck Jumper cables, a flashlight and warning devices such as flares or reflective triangles Blankets for warmth A phone and charger, water, food and any medicine you need If you drive back roads between Farmington, Potosi or Ironton, throw in gloves, a hat and boots. Cell service can be thin out there, and so can traffic. Don't wait on these Slow cranking or a battery warning. Weak starts in fall usually turn into no starts in winter. Temperature gauge climbing or a sweet smell. Low or leaking coolant can overheat an engine any time of year. Four wheel drive warning or flashing indicator. Have it diagnosed before you need it on ice. Windows that fog and won't clear. You can't drive safely if you can't see out. Our Ford Mobile Service technicians can handle batteries, wipers, fluids and filters, tire rotations and diagnostic scans at a location you choose, depending on distance and availability. The rest fits into one visit at 5019 Flat River Road. Book it your way Schedule online, in the Ford app, or by phone at 573-430-1693. Service hours are 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM Monday through Friday, closed noon to 1:00 PM. Ask how on time maintenance keeps Warranty Forever in force. Battery and Coolant Should I get my Ford battery tested before winter? + We'd do it, especially if the battery's a few years old or starts have felt slow. A weak one that gets by in warm weather often quits on the first hard freeze. How do I know if my coolant is ready for winter? + A technician can test freeze protection in about a minute at a service visit. The level you can check yourself, at the reservoir, with the engine cold. Can I add any coolant to my Ford? + Use the coolant type Ford specifies for your engine, listed in the Owner's Manual. Mixing types can cut protection and cause cooling system trouble. Tires and Traction Why does my tire pressure light come on when it gets cold? + Cold air takes up less space, and pressure can drop 1 or 2 psi for every 10 degree swing. Fill to the door jamb number with the tires cold and the light should go off. What tire pressure should I run in winter? + Use the pressure listed on the label inside the driver's door jamb, checked before driving. The number on the tire sidewall is a maximum, not a target. Do I need winter tires in Southeast Missouri? + Most people here do fine on good all season or all terrain tires with healthy tread. If you're on steep, unplowed roads every day, ask us about dedicated winter tires. Visibility and Comfort When should I replace my wiper blades? + Once they start streaking or skipping spots. Fall's a good time, since summer heat has already hardened the rubber. What washer fluid should I use in winter? + Get one rated for below freezing. Plain water or summer fluid can freeze up in the lines. Why does my Ford's windshield fog up in winter? + Moisture in the cabin condenses on cold glass. The defrost setting helps, and a clogged cabin air filter or a heater problem will make it worse. Four Wheel Drive How often should I use four wheel drive? + Shift into it now and then on a loose surface so it gets some use, and always before winter. Your Owner's Manual explains the modes on your model. Can I drive in 4H on dry pavement? + A lot of part time systems aren't designed for dry pavement and can bind up. Auto modes on some Fords work differently, so check your Owner's Manual. What does a flashing four wheel drive light mean? + Usually the system didn't finish a shift or it found a fault. Get it diagnosed before you need it on snow or ice. Scheduling Winter Service How long does a winter check take? + The basic checks fit easily into a routine visit like an oil change. Anything beyond that depends on what the technician finds. Can Ford Mobile Service do winter prep at my house? + Mobile Service covers batteries, wipers, fluids and filters, tire rotations and diagnostic scans, depending on distance and availability. Four wheel drive diagnosis is handled at the store. How do I book a winter service visit? + Schedule online, through the Ford app, or call 573-430-1693. The service center is open weekdays from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, closed for lunch from noon to 1:00 PM. Need wipers or fluid Order genuine Ford and Motorcraft parts for your vehicle. Order Parts Meet the service team See what the Sam Scism Ford service center handles. Service Center

Ownership  |  Farmington, MO October and November put a lot more deer on the roads across St. Francois County. This is when to slow down and what to do if you hit one. If you've driven MO 32 toward Ste. Genevieve or US 67 down to Fredericktown on a fall evening, you know the feeling. A pair of eyes shows up in the ditch, then another, and suddenly you're on the brakes. Deer are just part of living around Farmington. This time of year, though, they move a lot more than usual. This post walks through when the risk is highest and what your Ford's driver assist can and can't do about it. We'll also cover what we'd want to look at after a hit. Quick answer: Deer are most active at dawn and dusk, and Missouri sees the most deer strikes in October and November as the breeding season builds toward a mid-November peak. If one steps out, brake firmly and stay in your lane instead of swerving. After a strike, get somewhere safe and check on everyone. Then have your Ford looked at for coolant leaks and front sensor damage, even if it still drives fine. Peak months October and November Peak hours Early morning and early evening Missouri in 2024 2,952 deer involved crashes In this post When deer are most active How to lower the odds If a deer steps out How Ford driver assist helps What to do after a strike What to check on your Ford When Are Deer Most Active Around Farmington? Missouri Department of Conservation deer biologist Jason Isabelle has explained that deer move more during the breeding season, which starts in October and peaks in mid-November. Bucks chase does across fields and roads, and the usual patterns go out the window. Time of day matters as much as the calendar. MoDOT, citing Missouri State Highway Patrol data, says most deer strikes in the state happen in October and November, especially from 6 to 7 a.m. and from 6 to 9 p.m. That's the morning commute and the drive home, right as the days get shorter. In 2024, Missouri recorded 2,952 crashes involving deer, with four people killed and 420 injured. And it isn't only back roads. Deer cross the four lane stretches of US 67 and wander through neighborhoods in Park Hills and Desloge. Some bed down in creek bottoms that run right up to town. Deer rarely travel alone. If one crosses, another is often right behind it. How Can You Lower Your Chances of Hitting a Deer? You can't get the risk to zero. A few habits cut it down a lot, though. Slow down at dawn and dusk. A few miles per hour less gives you more distance to stop. Scan both shoulders. Watch for eyes reflecting in your headlights, not just shapes on the pavement. Expect more than one. Deer rarely travel alone. If one crosses, another is often right behind it. Use high beams when the road is clear. Switch back down for oncoming traffic. Leave space. The driver ahead may brake hard for a deer you can't see. Put the phone away and buckle up. Seat belts matter most in the crash you don't see coming. Farmington driver tip Wooded stretches near St. Francois State Park, Hawn State Park and the Big River crossings are classic deer territory. If your commute runs through them before sunrise, leave a couple minutes early so you're not tempted to push it. Deer rarely travel alone. If one crosses, another is often right behind it. What Should You Do If a Deer Steps Out in Front of You? Your instinct is going to be to yank the wheel. Don't. MoDOT and conservation officials both say not to swerve, because it can put you in the ditch, into a tree or across the center line. Those wrecks are often a lot worse than hitting the deer. 1 Brake firmly and hold your lane Press the brake hard and keep the wheel straight. Your Ford's anti lock brakes let you keep steering control while braking. 2 Keep your eyes up Watch for a second or third deer, and keep track of traffic behind you. 3 Don't try to outguess the deer Deer can stop, turn back or leap without warning. Slowing down in your lane is the one move you can count on. 4 If contact is coming, stay straight A straight on strike lets the vehicle's crash structure and airbags do their job. Can Ford Driver Assist Features Help Avoid a Deer? Many newer Fords come with Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking as part of Ford Co-Pilot360. Ford describes it as designed to help detect and potentially avoid frontal collisions with vehicles and pedestrians. If it senses a likely collision, it can warn you and get the brakes ready. If you don't react, it can apply them on its own. Ford doesn't list animals among the things it's designed to detect, and it notes pedestrian detection doesn't work in all conditions. So treat it as a backup, not a deer system. A deer jumping out of the ditch at night may not give it anything to react to. Your speed and your eyes still do most of the work. Some other features do help this time of year: Automatic high beams, available on many Ford models, keep your high beams on until another vehicle appears, which helps you spot eyeshine sooner. LED headlamps, on many current Fords, light the shoulders and ditches more clearly than older bulbs. Anti lock brakes and stability control help you stop hard while keeping the vehicle straight. Clean sensors and windshield. Pre-Collision Assist relies on a camera and radar at the front of the vehicle. Mud, ice or bugs on those areas can limit it. What you have depends on the model, year and trim. Check your Owner's Manual or the FordPass app, or ask us at your next visit and we'll show you the settings. What Should You Do Right After Hitting a Deer? None of this is complicated. The order matters, though. 1 Get to a safe spot Pull onto the shoulder or a side road if the vehicle can move, turn on your hazard lights, and stay buckled while you collect yourself. 2 Check on everyone If anyone is hurt, or if your vehicle or the deer is blocking a lane, call 911 or local law enforcement. 3 Stay away from the deer An injured deer can kick hard. Leave it alone. 4 Report a deer in the road MoDOT asks drivers to report a carcass in a driving lane at 888-ASK-MODOT (275-6636) rather than stepping into traffic to drag it off. 5 Document the damage Take photos of the vehicle, the scene and any road markers, then call your insurance company. Animal strikes are often handled under comprehensive coverage, but your policy decides. If you want to keep the deer, MDC requires written authorization from a conservation agent first, so contact MDC before loading it up. What Should Be Checked on Your Ford After a Deer Strike? From the driver's seat a deer hit can look like nothing. Then a few days later the temp gauge starts climbing. Even if your Ford drives fine, get the front end checked before a long trip. Get these looked at soon Rising temperature gauge or sweet smell. A damaged radiator or condenser can leak coolant, and an engine that runs hot can be seriously damaged. Pull over if the gauge climbs. Driver assist warning messages. A message that Pre-Collision Assist or adaptive cruise is unavailable can mean a front sensor was knocked out of position or damaged. Headlamp or fog lamp out or aimed wrong. Low or crooked beams cut your view right when deer are most active. Hood that won't latch or close evenly. A loose hood can fly up at highway speed. Fluid under the vehicle or new noises. Drips, scraping or a pull to one side point to damage behind the bumper. Our Ford trained technicians will go through the cooling system, the lights and the front sensors, plus whatever else is hiding behind the bumper cover. Damaged parts get replaced with genuine Ford and Motorcraft parts. Body work is a conversation for your insurance adjuster. You can see what the service center offers, and loaner cars may be available depending on the work. Schedule an Inspection Order Genuine Ford Parts Service hours are 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM Monday through Friday, closed noon to 1:00 PM, and the service desk is at 573-430-1693. Book it your way Schedule online, in the FordPass app, or call 573-430-1693 and tell the advisor you hit a deer. For routine work later on, ask whether Ford Mobile Service can come to you. Deer Activity and Timing What time of day are deer most likely to cross the road in Missouri? + MoDOT reports that most deer strikes happen from 6 to 7 a.m. and from 6 to 9 p.m. during October and November. Those are the hours to ease off the gas. When is deer rut season in Missouri? + According to MDC, the breeding season begins in October and peaks in mid-November. Expect deer to be out more, and to be less predictable, through that stretch. How many deer crashes happen in Missouri each year? + The Missouri State Highway Patrol counted 2,952 crashes involving deer in 2024, with four deaths and 420 injuries. Avoiding a Collision Should I swerve to miss a deer? + Safety officials say don't. Swerving can put you in a ditch or into oncoming traffic, so brake hard and stay in your lane. Are deer only a problem on rural roads? + MoDOT notes that deer collisions also happen in populated areas. Neighborhoods along wooded creeks in Park Hills, Desloge and Farmington see their share. Will my Ford brake automatically for a deer? + Ford designs Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking for vehicles and pedestrians, and animals aren't on Ford's list. It might react sometimes, but drive like it won't. After a Strike Who do I call after hitting a deer? + Call 911 or local law enforcement if anyone is hurt or a lane is blocked, then your insurance company. A deer left in a driving lane can be reported to MoDOT at 888-ASK-MODOT. Can I keep a deer I hit with my car in Missouri? + MDC allows it only with written authorization from a conservation agent, so contact MDC before taking the deer. Is hitting a deer covered by insurance? + Animal strikes are often handled under comprehensive coverage, but your own policy and deductible decide. Call your agent before repairs start. Inspection and Repair My Ford still drives after hitting a deer. Do I need an inspection? + We'd get one. Radiator, condenser and sensor damage can hide behind a bumper that looks fine, then show up later as overheating or a warning light. Why is my Pre-Collision Assist unavailable after a deer strike? + The system depends on sensors at the front of the vehicle, and a hit can block, move or damage them. Have a Ford trained technician check them before you count on it again. Does Sam Scism Ford use genuine Ford parts for repairs? + Our service center uses genuine Ford and Motorcraft parts, and the parts counter can order lamps, grilles and other front end parts for your exact VIN. Scheduling and Getting Around How do I schedule an inspection after a deer strike? + Book online through our Schedule Service page or call 573-430-1693. Mention the deer so the advisor knows what to look at. Can I get a loaner while my Ford is in the shop? + Loaner cars may be available depending on the work, and a courtesy shuttle can get you home or to work in the area. Ask when you book. Should I drive my Ford if the temperature gauge is rising? + Pull over and shut it off. Driving an overheating engine can turn a radiator repair into an engine repair, so arrange a tow instead. Get it looked over See what the Sam Scism Ford service center handles after a deer strike. Service Center Got questions first Reach the Sam Scism Ford team by phone or message. Contact Us

Service  |  Farmington, MO That little engine shaped light can mean a fuel filler that didn't seal, or a misfire that needs attention today. This is how to tell which, and what happens when you bring it in. You're halfway up US 67 on a hot August afternoon and an amber light shaped like an engine pops on in the cluster. The truck feels fine. Now you're trying to decide whether to pull over or just keep going and deal with it Saturday. It comes down to what the light is doing. Steady and flashing mean very different things on a Ford, and Ford's own owner guidance draws a clear line between them. We'll go through both, plus the usual reasons the light comes on. Reading a code is only the first step, and we'll get to why. Quick answer: A steady check engine light on a Ford means the On Board Diagnostics system found a fault, so get service scheduled soon. Flashing means the engine may be misfiring, which can cut power or stall it, so ease off and get it checked as soon as you can. A code reader points you to a system, but a technician still has to test and confirm the cause before anything gets replaced. Steady light Fault detected; book service soon Flashing light Possible misfire; get it checked right away Phone number Service desk 573-430-1693 In this post What the light means Steady vs flashing Common causes Why a code is not a diagnosis What a diagnostic visit involves What Does the Check Engine Light Mean on a Ford? Ford calls it the Service Engine Soon light. Most people just say check engine light. It's tied to the On Board Diagnostics system, the sensors and computer checks that keep an eye on the engine and emissions equipment every time you drive. When you turn the key or push the start button, the light should come on for a second as a bulb check and go out once the engine starts. If it stays lit with the engine running, the system has logged a fault and stored a diagnostic trouble code. That code is where a technician starts. The light alone won't tell you how serious it is. A tiny leak in the evaporative emissions system can turn it on, and so can an ignition coil that's going bad. Steady or flashing is your first clue. Is a Flashing Check Engine Light Worse Than a Steady One? Yes. Ford's owner guidance says a light that stays on with the engine running means the diagnostics system has detected an error and you should contact your Ford dealer. A light that keeps flashing means the engine may be misfiring, and if you keep driving it can lose power or stall. A misfire also dumps unburned fuel into the exhaust, where it can overheat and damage the catalytic converter. A steady light means book an appointment. A flashing light means get it checked today. Do not wait on these Flashing check engine light. Slow down, go easy on the gas and skip the heavy loads until it's checked. If the engine runs rough or loses power, pull over somewhere safe. Light plus high temperature gauge. Overheating can hurt an engine fast. Pull over and shut it off. Don't try to limp it home. Light plus low oil pressure warning. Stop safely and turn the engine off. Running without oil pressure can ruin an engine in minutes. Fuel smell or smoke. Don't keep driving. Park away from anything that can burn and call for help. A steady light means book an appointment. A flashing light means get it checked today. With a steady light and nothing else going on, you can usually drive normally to an appointment. Just don't let it ride for months. Small faults grow, and while that light's on, it can't warn you about the next problem. What Usually Turns On a Ford Check Engine Light? There are hundreds of trouble codes, but a handful of systems show up again and again in any service drive. On gas engines, these are the usual suspects: Evaporative emissions leaks: the system that traps fuel vapor from the tank can trip the light if a seal, hose or valve leaks. Ignition misfires: worn spark plugs or a failing ignition coil can make a cylinder misfire. That's the classic reason for a flashing light. Oxygen sensors: these read exhaust and help the engine computer set the fuel mixture; a slow or failed sensor sets a code. Catalytic converter efficiency: a code here can point to the converter or to an upstream problem damaging it. Air and vacuum leaks: a cracked intake hose or leaking gasket lets in unmetered air and throws the fuel mixture off. Airflow and temperature sensors: faulty readings can make the engine run rich, lean or below normal temperature. Could It Be a Loose Gas Cap? On older Fords with a screw on cap, a loose, cross threaded or missing cap can set an evaporative emissions fault. Some of those vehicles also have a separate fuel cap light. Ford's dashboard guide says it comes on when the cap is too loose, too tight, missing, dirty or broken. A lot of newer Fords don't have a gas cap at all. They use Ford's capless Easy Fuel filler, which seals itself with a spring loaded flap. When that flap doesn't seal, usually from dirt or a nozzle that didn't seat all the way, many models show a Check Fuel Fill Inlet message and the check engine light may come on after it. If tightening the cap or a few normal fill ups doesn't clear it, something else is going on. Farmington driver tip Gravel county roads and summer dust can foul a capless filler flap. If you get a fuel inlet message right after a fill up, push the nozzle all the way in next time. Don't poke tools down the filler neck. If the message keeps coming back, bring it in. Schedule a Diagnosis See Service Specials Why Is a Code Read Not the Same as a Diagnosis? A free code read at a parts store gets you a code and a short description, like a misfire on cylinder three or a small evaporative leak. That's useful. It just tells you which system noticed a problem, not why. Take that cylinder three misfire. It could be a spark plug or a coil. It could also be an injector, a wiring fault, low compression or a vacuum leak near that cylinder. Swapping whatever part the internet mentions most is a guess, and guesses get expensive when the light's back a week later. A real diagnosis means testing. The technician looks at stored codes and live sensor readings, plus the freeze frame data that shows what was going on when the fault set. Then they test to confirm the failed part before recommending anything. Our techs also check for a technical service bulletin, recall or software update on your vehicle, because some faults are known issues with a published fix. What Happens During a Check Engine Light Visit at Sam Scism Ford? 1 Tell us what you noticed Call 573-430-1693, book online or use the FordPass app. Tell us if the light's steady or flashing and whether the vehicle feels or sounds any different. 2 We pull codes and data A Ford trained technician connects factory diagnostic equipment and reviews stored codes, freeze frame data and live readings. 3 We test to confirm The technician runs the tests that apply, such as checking ignition components, smoke testing for vapor leaks or measuring sensor output. 4 You approve the repair Your advisor explains what failed, what it takes to fix and whether warranty coverage applies before any work starts. 5 Repair and verify Once it's fixed, the technician clears the code and makes sure the fault doesn't come back. If you can't get away from work, ask about Ford Mobile Service. Diagnostic scans are on its list, and the tech comes to you, depending on distance and availability. A flashing light or an engine that's running poorly should come to the shop, though. Is a Check Engine Repair Covered by Warranty? That depends on the part and your coverage. Ford's New Vehicle Limited Warranty covers defects for 3 years or 36,000 miles Bumper to Bumper and 5 years or 60,000 miles on the powertrain, and the Warranty Guide lists separate emissions coverage for certain parts. If you bought your Ford at Sam Scism Ford with Warranty Forever, listed engine, transmission and drive axle components are covered for as long as you own it, when maintenance is kept up and documented. Your advisor will sort out what's covered before you pay for anything. Book it your way Schedule online, in the FordPass app, or by phone at 573-430-1693. Service hours are Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, closed noon to 1:00 PM. For a scan at home or work, ask about Ford Mobile Service. Understanding the Light Can I drive with the check engine light on? + If it's steady and nothing else seems wrong, driving gently to an appointment is usually fine. Flashing, running rough or showing other warnings is a different story, and that needs a look right away. Why does the check engine light come on and then go off? + Some faults come and go, and the system shuts the light off after several trips without seeing the problem. The code usually stays stored, so it's still smart to have it read. Is the check engine light the same as the Service Engine Soon light? + On a Ford, same thing. Ford's manuals call the amber engine shaped light Service Engine Soon. Gas Cap and Fuel Filler Can a loose gas cap turn on the check engine light? + On Fords with a screw on cap, a loose or damaged cap can set an evaporative emissions fault. Tighten it till it clicks and give it a few drive cycles to clear. What does Check Fuel Fill Inlet mean on a Ford? + The capless fuel filler may not have sealed, and the system reads that as a vapor leak. Usually it's dirt on the flap or a nozzle that didn't seat all the way. How long does it take the light to reset after fixing the cap? + It takes several normal drive cycles for the system to recheck the fuel vapor side and shut the light off. If it's still on after a week of regular driving, have it diagnosed. Codes and Diagnosis Is a free code reading enough to fix the problem? + Usually not. A code tells you which system flagged a fault, not which part failed, and testing is how the right part gets replaced the first time. What equipment do Ford technicians use? + Factory Ford diagnostic equipment, which reads Ford specific data a basic scanner can't see. They'll check for service bulletins and software updates too. Will clearing the code fix my check engine light? + It just turns the light off. If the fault's still there the light comes back, and you've erased data a technician could have used. Cost and Coverage Is check engine light diagnosis covered under the Ford warranty? + If it's a covered defect and you're inside the warranty limits, the diagnosis and repair are typically covered. We'll confirm that before any work starts. Does Warranty Forever cover check engine light repairs? + It covers listed engine, transmission and drive axle components on qualifying vehicles bought here. Parts in other systems, like evaporative emissions components, generally aren't part of it, and your agreement lists exactly what is. Are there service specials for diagnostics? + Check our Service and Parts Specials page before you book. Offers change through the year. Scheduling Service How do I schedule a check engine light diagnosis in Farmington? + Book online, use the FordPass app, or call 573-430-1693. Sam Scism Ford is at 5019 Flat River Road. Can Ford Mobile Service check my engine light at home? + Diagnostic scans are on the Mobile Service list, depending on distance and availability. Anything that needs a lift or a lot of testing gets done in the shop. What should I tell the service advisor? + Tell them if the light was steady or flashing and when it started. Mention any change in how it sounds, smells or pulls, or in your fuel mileage. It all helps. Talk to a service advisor Call 573-430-1693 or send us a message about what the light is doing. Contact Us Meet the service team See what the Sam Scism Ford service center handles. Service Center

Service  |  Farmington, MO Not every oil change needs a trip to Flat River Road. Ford Mobile Service and Ford Pickup and Delivery work differently, and the job your Ford needs decides which one you want. Summer's the busiest stretch of the year for a lot of families and businesses around Farmington. There's hay to cut and kids to haul to ball practice. A work truck parked at the dealership all morning means a crew standing around. The oil life monitor doesn't care how full your calendar is, though. Ford has two programs for that. Ford Mobile Service brings a technician to you. Ford Pickup and Delivery takes your vehicle to the shop and brings it back. Both run through participating dealers, and Sam Scism Ford offers both. Pick the right one up front and the work gets done sooner. Quick answer: Ford Mobile Service sends a Ford trained technician to your home or job for routine work like oil changes, batteries, wipers, tire rotations, diagnostic scans and many recalls. With Ford Pickup and Delivery, we pick up your drivable Ford, service or repair it at the dealership and bring it back. Ford calls both complimentary, parts and labor are billed like normal, and it all depends on distance and the schedule. Mobile Service Technician comes to you for routine work Pickup and Delivery We take it to the shop and bring it back Book it 573-430-1693, online or FordPass app In this post What Mobile Service does What Pickup and Delivery does What still needs the shop How to book What to have ready What Is Ford Mobile Service? Ford Mobile Service is what it sounds like. A technician drives a service unit out to your house or your farm, or wherever you work, and does the job right there while you go about your day. Ford says about 2,000 of its roughly 2,800 U.S. dealers take part. Each one sets its own distance and service limits. Our Mobile Service technicians can take care of a good list of routine jobs: Oil and filter changes on the schedule your oil life monitor calls for Tire rotations and wiper blade replacement Battery testing and replacement Brake service on many jobs Fluids, filters, lamps and bulbs Diagnostic scans and software updates Recall work and some accessory installs If the tech finds something bigger, they'll fix it on the spot if they can. If not, they'll set up a follow up visit or get the vehicle to the shop. How Does Ford Pickup and Delivery Work? Pickup and Delivery is for work that needs a full service bay. Someone from the dealership picks up your Ford at your home or office and brings it back when it's done. You don't have to make the drive at all. 1 Request it when you book Ask for Pickup and Delivery when you schedule online, in the FordPass app or by phone. The advisor will confirm timing and make sure your address is inside the service area. 2 Hand off the keys We pick it up at the time and place you agreed on. Leave it somewhere the driver can get to easily. 3 Stay in the loop You'll hear from the service team by phone, text or email, your call, and nothing gets done until you approve it. 4 Get it back Your Ford comes back to you when the work is done, and you settle any parts or repair charges with the dealership. Ford calls the pickup and return complimentary at participating dealers. Parts and repairs are billed the same as if you'd driven in, and warranty work is still warranty work. Loaners are up to the dealer, so if you'll need something to drive, say so when you book. Ford Mobile Service brings a technician to you. Ford Pickup and Delivery takes your vehicle to the shop and brings it back. What Work Still Needs a Trip to the Shop? A driveway isn't a service bay. Anything that needs a lift or an alignment rack happens at the dealership, and so does work with heavy diagnostic equipment or hours of teardown. That covers most engine and transmission repairs, suspension work and alignments. Pickup and Delivery fills that gap, with a few limits. Ford says the vehicle has to be drivable, can't have a flat and can't be part of a roadside collision. If it won't start or move, that's a job for Roadside Assistance or a tow. Call the service desk instead if A warning light is flashing. A flashing check engine light or a red warning message can mean the vehicle shouldn't be driven far. Call us before anybody drives it. The brakes grind or pull hard. That needs to go up on a lift in the shop. Don't wait for a mobile slot. You have a flat or the vehicle won't start. Pickup and Delivery can't take a vehicle that isn't drivable. That's what Roadside Assistance is for. You hear new knocking or see smoke. Stop driving and call 573-430-1693. We'll figure out the safest way to get it here. Ford Mobile Service Schedule Service How Do You Book Mobile Service or Pickup and Delivery in Farmington? Both start the same way. Tell the service team what you need and where to find the vehicle. Book on the online Schedule Service page, in the FordPass app, or call the service desk at 573-430-1693. We're open 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM Monday through Friday, closed noon to 1:00 PM. Distance matters. A tech working Farmington, Park Hills, Bonne Terre and Desloge can hit more stops in a day than one driving out to Potosi or Fredericktown, so the farther out you live, the fewer open slots you may see. Give us a call and we'll tell you what works for your address. Bonne Terre driver tip If you commute toward St. Louis, ask about Mobile Service at the house on a day you work from home, or at your job if your employer's OK with it. In summer, book a week or two out. Calling the day before doesn't leave many times to pick from. If you'd rather come in, the service center lounge has Wi-Fi, coffee, popcorn and a kids table. There's a courtesy shuttle too, and depending on the work, maybe a loaner. What Should You Have Ready Before the Technician Arrives? A little prep keeps a mobile visit moving and saves you a reschedule. A safe, level spot. A driveway or parking space with room to work around the vehicle, out of traffic. Permission at work. If the service happens in an employer's lot, make sure the property allows it. Keys and the wheel lock key. Leave them where you agreed, along with the locking lug nut key if your wheels have one. Your notes. Jot down any warning messages or noises, and the current oil life reading. A clear path. Move the boat trailer or the mower so the service unit can park close. For Pickup and Delivery, park it where it's easy to get to and pull out, and take anything valuable out of the cab. Hang on to the paperwork afterward with the rest of your service records. Book it your way Schedule online, in the FordPass app, or by phone at 573-430-1693. Every visit, mobile or in the shop, counts toward the maintenance records that keep Warranty Forever in force. Ford Mobile Service Basics What can Ford Mobile Service do at my house? + Oil and filter changes, tire rotations, batteries, wipers, fluids and filters, bulbs, diagnostic scans, software updates and many recalls. Some brake work and accessory installs can be done too, depending on the job. Does Ford Mobile Service cost extra? + Ford calls the visit itself complimentary. Parts and labor are billed like normal, so check the Service and Parts Specials page for current offers before you book. Are Mobile Service technicians Ford trained? + They are. They're our own Ford trained technicians, the same people who work in our service bays. Ford Pickup and Delivery Basics How is Pickup and Delivery different from Mobile Service? + Mobile Service does the work at your location. Pickup and Delivery takes the vehicle to the dealership for work that needs a full service bay, then returns it. Can I get a loaner with Pickup and Delivery? + That's up to the dealer. Mention it when you book so we can plan for it. Will someone call me before doing extra work? + We'll keep you posted by phone, text or email, whichever you like. Any added work gets talked over with you before it's done. Limits and Eligibility Can Pickup and Delivery take a car that won't start? + The vehicle has to be drivable. A no start, a flat or a roadside collision means Roadside Assistance or a tow. How far will Sam Scism Ford travel for Mobile Service? + It depends on the schedule and how far out you live. Call 573-430-1693 with your address and we'll tell you. Can warranty and recall work be done through these programs? + Recall work is on the Mobile Service list, and Ford Pickup and Delivery covers warranty and customer pay repairs on drivable vehicles. Your advisor can tell you which one makes sense for your repair. Booking and Timing How do I book Ford Mobile Service in Farmington? + Schedule online, through the FordPass app, or call the service desk. Just say whether you want Mobile Service or Pickup and Delivery so we hold the right slot. Are mobile appointments available on weekends? + Service runs Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with lunch from noon to 1:00 PM, so weekends aren't on the schedule. Ask your advisor what time windows are open for your address. How far ahead should I schedule? + A week or two out is good, especially in summer and before holidays. Preparing for the Visit Where should my vehicle be parked for Mobile Service? + A level driveway or parking spot with some room around it. Keep it out of traffic and away from trailers or equipment. Do I need to be home during the service? + Not always. If the keys are where you agreed and we can get to the vehicle, you're fine, and your advisor will walk you through the handoff when you book. Do mobile visits count for Warranty Forever records? + They do. Anything Sam Scism Ford does, mobile or in the shop, goes on your service record, and keeping up that customary maintenance is what keeps Warranty Forever in force. Rather wait at the shop Grab a coffee in our lounge with Wi-Fi, or ride the courtesy shuttle. Service Center Watch for service offers Current coupons and specials from our service department. Service Specials

Service  |  Farmington, MO June in Southeast Missouri means sticky heat and long days in the truck. These are the signs your Ford's air conditioning needs a look before July gets here. The first really sticky afternoon of the year has a way of showing you an AC system that's been slipping. You climb into a truck that sat in a Park Hills parking lot all day and crank the fan. The air's barely cool, and by the time it feels right you're almost where you were going. AC problems don't fix themselves, but most give you some warning. Catch it in early June, before the long run of humid ninety degree days, and the repair's usually smaller. Quick answer: Have your Ford's AC checked if it's blowing warmer than it used to or taking longer to cool down. Cycling on and off, a musty smell or a new noise are reasons too. A proper check covers vent temperature, refrigerant charge, the compressor, belts, the condenser and the cabin air filter, and it's a good time to look at the engine cooling system as well. Common sign Air takes longer to get cold Easy fix first A clogged cabin air filter Service desk 573-430-1693, Mon to Fri In this post Signs of weak AC What an AC check covers Cabin filter and smells The cooling system link Precooling and getting in How Can You Tell Your Ford's AC Is Getting Weak? Most owners notice it a little at a time. The system still works, it just doesn't feel like it did last summer. Our service advisors hear about these the most: Slow cool down. The cabin takes a lot longer to get comfortable than it used to. Warm air at idle. The air is cold on the highway but warms up while you sit at a light or in a drive through line. Weak airflow. The fan is on high, but not much air comes out of the vents. On and off cooling. The air turns cold, then cool, then cold again. New sounds. A rattle, squeal or grinding when the AC kicks on. Weak airflow usually means a blocked cabin air filter or a blower problem. If the air's moving fine but just isn't cold, that leans more toward refrigerant, the compressor or the condenser. Tell the advisor which one you're seeing. It saves the tech time. What Does a Ford AC Check Cover? An AC check is a diagnosis, not just a recharge. Put refrigerant in a leaking system and it'll buy you a few weeks, maybe. The point is to find out why it quit cooling. 1 Performance test The technician measures the air temperature at the vents and compares it to what the system should deliver for the conditions. 2 Refrigerant and pressure check Gauges show whether the system holds the right charge. Low refrigerant almost always means a leak somewhere. 3 Leak and component inspection The compressor, lines, hoses, fittings and condenser get a close look, along with the drive belt that powers the compressor on most engines. 4 Airflow and filter The cabin air filter and blower get checked, since a clogged filter can choke airflow even when the system is cold. 5 Clear recommendation We'll tell you what we found and what it takes to fix, and nothing gets repaired until you say so. What about refrigerant? Most newer vehicles, Fords included, use a refrigerant called R-1234yf. It replaced the older R-134a across the industry and takes its own service equipment. There's a label under the hood that lists which refrigerant your Ford uses and how much it holds, and that's the spec our technicians work from. An AC check is a diagnosis, not just a recharge. Why Does Your Ford's AC Smell Musty? Missouri humidity is hard on AC systems in a way people don't always expect. The evaporator inside the dash stays cold and wet while the AC runs, and mold and bacteria like that. You end up with the old gym bag smell when you first turn the air on. Check the cabin air filter first. It catches dust and pollen before they get into the cabin, and on gravel roads it fills up fast. A dirty one chokes airflow and makes the smell worse. Your Owner's Manual has the replacement interval for your model, and dusty driving is a good reason to change it sooner. If you'd rather do it yourself, our parts department has filters. Farmington driver tip If you drive gravel county roads around St. Francois County, have the cabin air filter looked at every oil change during summer. Dust off those roads loads a filter quickly, and a fresh one often brings back airflow you didn't know you'd lost. Some smells mean something else entirely. Sweet and syrupy inside the cabin can point to a coolant leak near the heater core. A burning smell when the AC kicks on can be a slipping belt or a compressor going bad. Don't sit on either one. Do not wait on these Sweet smell or foggy windows. A coolant leak inside the dash can fog the glass and needs attention right away. Engine temperature climbing. If the gauge rises when the AC runs, shut the AC off, watch the gauge and get the cooling system checked. Grinding or squealing at AC engagement. Compressor or belt trouble can get worse quickly and may affect other belt driven parts. Burning smell from the vents. Turn the system off and have it inspected before using it again. Schedule AC Service See Service Specials How Is the AC Connected to the Engine Cooling System? The AC condenser sits right in front of the radiator. They both need steady airflow to shed heat, and they share the cooling fans. So on a hot day, running the AC puts extra heat and load on the engine cooling system. That's why we like to look at the radiator, coolant, hoses and fans on an AC visit. A condenser packed with bugs and road grime doesn't cool well, and the engine works harder for it. A weak cooling fan often shows up first as AC that goes warm at idle. Later it's an engine running hot pulling a trailer up a grade. If the truck's pulling a boat this summer or working hard in the heat, have us check both on the same visit. Can You Cool Down Your Ford Before You Get In? On a lot of Fords with remote start, you can fire it up from the key fob or the FordPass app and let the climate system work on the cabin before you open the door. Some models let you pick a cabin temperature in the app, and some features need an active connected service plan. Your Owner's Manual and the app will show what yours supports. A couple of habits help. Use a windshield shade, and park with the windshield away from the sun when you can. For the first minute, run the AC on fresh air to push the hot air out, then switch to recirculate. When it needs service, schedule online, in the FordPass app, or call 573-430-1693. We're open 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM Monday through Friday, closed noon to 1:00 PM. The lounge has Wi-Fi and coffee, and there's a courtesy shuttle if you'd rather not wait. Book it your way Schedule online, in the FordPass app, or by phone at 573-430-1693. For routine items like filters and diagnostic scans, ask whether Ford Mobile Service can come to you. AC Warning Signs Why does my Ford AC blow cold on the highway but warm at idle? + We see that a lot with low refrigerant, a weak cooling fan or a dirty condenser. A technician can check all of those during an AC diagnosis. Is water dripping under my Ford normal in summer? + Clear water under the front of the vehicle after running the AC is usually condensation from the evaporator. Colored or sweet smelling fluid is a different story and should be checked. Why does my AC turn cold, then cool, then cold again? + Low charge can do it, and so can a bad sensor or a struggling compressor. A pressure test usually narrows it down. AC Service and Refrigerant Should I just get my AC recharged? + If it's leaking, a recharge won't last because the refrigerant just leaks back out. Fix the leak and it'll stay cold all summer. What refrigerant does my Ford use? + Check the label under the hood, which lists the refrigerant type and charge amount. Most newer vehicles use R-1234yf. How long does an AC check take? + A basic diagnosis is often done within a normal service visit, while leak repairs and part replacements take longer. Your advisor will give you a time estimate when you check in. Cabin Filter and Odors How often should I replace my Ford's cabin air filter? + Follow the interval in your Owner's Manual, and replace it sooner if you drive dusty or gravel roads. A clogged filter cuts airflow noticeably. What causes a musty smell from the vents? + Moisture on the evaporator lets mold and bacteria grow, especially in humid weather. A new cabin filter and an evaporator cleaning usually clear it up. Can I change the cabin filter myself? + On many Fords it's a simple job behind the glove box, and your Owner's Manual shows the steps. Our parts department can get the right filter for your VIN. Cooling System and Heat Does running the AC make my engine run hotter? + It adds load, and the condenser in front of the radiator adds heat to the air the radiator uses. A healthy cooling system handles that easily, so a rising temperature gauge with the AC on is a sign something needs attention. Should the cooling system be checked with the AC? + It makes sense, since they share airflow and fans. We'll look at coolant, hoses and the radiator while it's in. What should I do if my Ford starts overheating in traffic? + Turn off the AC, turn the heater to full hot to pull heat from the engine, and pull over safely if the gauge keeps climbing. Don't drive it far until it's been looked at. Scheduling and Convenience How do I schedule Ford AC service in Farmington? + Book online through our Schedule Service page, use the FordPass app, or call 573-430-1693. Sam Scism Ford is at 5019 Flat River Road. Can I use remote start to cool my Ford before I get in? + On equipped models you can remote start from the key fob or the FordPass app and let the air run before you get in. Some models even let you set the cabin temperature from the app. Is there somewhere to wait during service? + Our lounge has TV, Wi-Fi, coffee and popcorn, or you can take the courtesy shuttle. Depending on the work, a loaner car may be an option. Swap the cabin air filter Order a genuine Ford or Motorcraft cabin air filter for your vehicle. Order Parts See the service center Ford trained technicians and genuine Motorcraft parts. Service Center