Straight From Scism

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

Ford Bronco Sport  |  Farmington, MO The Ford Bronco Sport is the small SUV for people whose weekends end on a gravel road. For 2026 there are four trims, and the right one depends on how far past the pavement you plan to go. We sell a lot of Ford Bronco Sports to people who don't think of themselves as off roaders. They live a mile down a gravel road outside Bonne Terre, they spend summer weekends at St. Joe State Park, and they want something that handles both without the size of a full size SUV. The 2026 Ford Bronco Sport comes in four trims: Big Bend, Heritage, Outer Banks and Badlands. Every one has standard four wheel drive. The Free Wheeling trim from past years is gone for 2026. This guide sorts the four that remain by how people around Farmington drive. Quick answer: Big Bend, Heritage and Outer Banks use a 1.5L EcoBoost engine with five G.O.A.T. Modes and suit commuting plus gravel roads and state park weekends. The Badlands steps up to a 2.0L EcoBoost, an advanced 4x4 system with a twin clutch rear drive unit and seven G.O.A.T. Modes, including Rock Crawl, for drivers who leave the gravel for rougher ground. 2026 trims Big Bend, Heritage, Outer Banks, Badlands Engines 1.5L EcoBoost, or 2.0L EcoBoost on Badlands G.O.A.T. Modes Five standard, seven on Badlands In this post The 2026 lineup Engines and 4x4 G.O.A.T. Modes Trim by trim Which trim fits you What Changed for the 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Lineup? The shape and the boxy Bronco look carry over. The changes for 2026 are mostly in the trim list and equipment. Free Wheeling is dropped, leaving Big Bend, Heritage, Outer Banks and Badlands. Ford also moved some equipment around. A 5G modem is now standard on every Bronco Sport. The Big Bend, Heritage and Outer Banks get an 8 inch digital cluster, and Ford took the wireless charging pad off all trims. Big Bend buyers can add a new Bronze Package and a Rear Recovery Kit with a steel plated rear bumper and two D ring hooks. Two new colors join the paint list, Orange Fury Metallic Tri-Coat and Space White Metallic. Every 2026 Bronco Sport uses an 8 speed automatic and standard 4x4. The engine and the four wheel drive hardware are where the trims split. Which Ford Bronco Sport Engine and 4x4 System Do You Need? Big Bend, Heritage and Outer Banks share the 1.5L EcoBoost. It's plenty for a commute up US 67, a run to the grocery store in Park Hills and the gravel road home. Their standard 4x4 system handles wet grass, mud at the end of a driveway and snow on a county road. The Ford Bronco Sport Badlands steps up to the 2.0L EcoBoost, the stronger of the two engines, and an advanced 4x4 system with a twin clutch rear drive unit. Ford says it can send torque to a single rear wheel, which matters when one tire is spinning on a rock or in a rut and the others have nothing to grab. Outer Banks buyers who want that hardware without stepping all the way to Badlands can add the Sasquatch Outer Banks Package. It brings the twin clutch rear drive unit, HOSS 2.0 suspension, high clearance fender flares, Trail Control and a 12.3 inch digital cluster. Park Hills tip St. Joe State Park has four lakes, two swimming beaches and two campgrounds sized for ORV or horse trailers. Any Bronco Sport gets you to the beach or the campsite on park roads. The Badlands makes more sense if your weekends include the rougher gravel and dirt roads in the Mark Twain National Forest. What Do the Ford Bronco Sport G.O.A.T. Modes Do? G.O.A.T. stands for Goes Over Any Type of Terrain. The system adjusts throttle, shifting, traction control and the 4x4 system for the surface under you, and you pick the mode from the console. Big Bend, Heritage and Outer Banks: five modes, Normal, ECO, Sport, Slippery and Off-Road. Badlands: seven modes, adding Rock Crawl for slow, technical ground and Rally, which Ford tunes for faster runs on loose surfaces. For most drivers here, Slippery gets the most use. It's the mode for ice on MO 32 in January and for a gravel road after a hard spring rain. Off-Road earns its spot when a field road or a campsite turns to mud. Their standard 4x4 system handles wet grass, mud at the end of a driveway and snow on a county road. Shop Ford Bronco Sport Research the 2026 Lineup How Do the Ford Bronco Sport Trims Compare? Ford Bronco Sport Big Bend The starting point, and a good one. You get 17 inch wheels on all season tires, easy clean cloth seats, the 8 inch cluster and a 13.2 inch center touchscreen. It fits a commuter who wants four wheel drive and the Bronco look, and the new Bronze Package and Rear Recovery Kit let you dress it up. Ford Bronco Sport Heritage Heritage is the style pick, with Oxford White painted 17 inch wheels, plaid cloth seats and retro Heritage styling that nods to the early Bronco. Mechanically it matches the Big Bend, so choose it for the look. Ford Bronco Sport Outer Banks Outer Banks is the comfort trim. It rides on 18 inch wheels with all season tires and adds heated front seats and steering wheel, a power memory driver seat and dual zone automatic climate control. For a daily driver that sees gravel on the weekend, this is where a lot of our customers land. Ford Bronco Sport Badlands Badlands is the one built for rough ground. Along with the 2.0L engine and advanced 4x4, it adds a steel plated front bumper, underbody protection and a 360 Degree Camera with Trail View so you can see around the front tires on a tight trail. The Sasquatch Badlands Package goes further with Bilstein rear shocks, a heavier duty cooling fan and high clearance fender flares. Which 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Trim Fits How You Drive? Be honest about how often you leave the gravel. Most of our Bronco Sport customers drive paved roads all week and gravel on the weekend, and a Big Bend or Outer Banks covers that well. Mostly commuting, some gravel: Big Bend, or Heritage if you love the retro look. Daily driver with more comfort: Outer Banks, with heated front seats and a heated steering wheel for cold mornings. Rough trails and steep, rocky ground: Badlands, or the Sasquatch Badlands Package for the most capability. To see every package and color, check our 2026 Ford Bronco Sport research page, then drive two trims back to back. The difference between the 1.5L and the 2.0L is easy to feel on the first on ramp. Warranty Forever Every new Ford Bronco Sport sold at Sam Scism Ford includes Warranty Forever at no charge. Listed engine, transmission and drive axle parts are covered for as long as you own the vehicle, regardless of miles, with no deductible. Keep up with the customary maintenance and records. See the dealer for details. How it works Trims and Lineup What trims does the 2026 Ford Bronco Sport come in? + Four: Big Bend, Heritage, Outer Banks and Badlands. Every one has standard four wheel drive. Is the Free Wheeling trim available for 2026? + Ford dropped the Free Wheeling trim from the Bronco Sport lineup for 2026. Does the 2026 Bronco Sport have wireless phone charging? + Ford removed the wireless charging pad from all 2026 Bronco Sport trims. A 5G modem is now standard instead. Engines and 4x4 Which Bronco Sport trims get the 2.0L engine? + The 2.0L EcoBoost is reserved for the Badlands. Big Bend, Heritage and Outer Banks use the 1.5L EcoBoost. Is every Ford Bronco Sport four wheel drive? + All 2026 trims come standard with 4x4. The Badlands, and Outer Banks with the Sasquatch package, add an advanced system with a twin clutch rear drive unit. What transmission does the Bronco Sport use? + Each 2026 Bronco Sport uses an 8 speed automatic. Off Road and Weekends What are G.O.A.T. Modes on the Bronco Sport? + They're drive modes that tune throttle, shifting and traction for the surface. The 1.5L trims get five, and the Badlands gets seven, including Rock Crawl and Rally. Can a Bronco Sport handle gravel county roads every day? + Every trim has standard 4x4 and a Slippery mode for loose or wet surfaces. Heritage and Badlands ride on all terrain tires for extra grip on rock and gravel. What does the Sasquatch package add on the Badlands? + The Sasquatch Badlands Package adds upgraded suspension with Bilstein rear shocks, an 850 watt engine cooling fan and high clearance fender flares. Comfort and Tech Which Bronco Sport has heated seats? + Outer Banks includes heated front seats and a heated steering wheel, and the Badlands has heated seats too. Big Bend and Heritage use cloth seats, with heated front seats available through the Convenience Package. How big is the touchscreen in the Bronco Sport? + Ford lists a 13.2 inch center display along with an 8 inch digital cluster on the Big Bend. Check the research page for screen details on each trim. Can I use the Ford app with a Bronco Sport? + The Ford app works with the Bronco Sport for features like remote start and service scheduling. A Ford Connectivity Package with one year included is standard on all 2026 trims. Buying and Ownership Can I order a 2026 Bronco Sport with the packages I want? + A factory order lets you pick the trim, color and packages. Ford doesn't charge extra to order, and lead times vary. Does Warranty Forever come on a new Bronco Sport? + Every new Ford sold at Sam Scism Ford, Bronco Sport included, comes with Warranty Forever at no charge when you keep up the customary maintenance and records. Where can I test drive a Bronco Sport near Farmington? + Stop by 5019 Flat River Road during sales hours, 8 AM to 6 PM weekdays and 9 AM to 5 PM Saturday, or call 573-430-1687 to set a time. Plan the payment Explore financing for your next Ford Bronco Sport. Finance Center Build it your way Order the exact trim, color and packages you want. Custom Order

Buying  |  Farmington, MO A lease and a loan can put the same Ford in your driveway. Which one fits comes down to how far you drive, how long you keep a vehicle and how hard you work it. People ask us this every week, usually right after they've picked out the color. They've found the Ford they want, and now they're stuck between a lease and a loan. There isn't one right answer for everybody. A nurse driving to a St. Louis area hospital five days a week has different needs than a retired couple in Fredericktown who put a few thousand miles a year on the car. This guide walks through the questions that sort it out. When you're ready for real numbers, our finance team runs them for your situation. Quick answer: Leasing tends to fit drivers who stay within a set yearly mileage, keep their vehicles in good shape and like moving into a new Ford every few years. Financing fits people who drive a lot of miles, work their trucks hard, add equipment or plan to keep a vehicle for many years and build equity in it. Lease usually fits Steady miles, light wear, a new Ford every few years Finance usually fits High miles, work trucks, keeping it a long time Lease end choices Buy it, return it, or move into a new Ford In this post Lease vs. loan basics Your yearly miles How long you keep it Work trucks and wear What happens at lease end Talking numbers What Is the Difference Between Leasing and Financing a Ford? When you finance, you're borrowing to buy the vehicle. Each payment pays down the loan, and once it's paid off, the Ford is yours free and clear. Drive it as far as you want, put a lift kit on it, sell it whenever you like. When you lease, you're paying to use the vehicle for a set term. Ford Credit calls its consumer lease Red Carpet Lease. The agreement sets a yearly mileage allowance and expects the vehicle back in good condition, with allowances for normal wear. At the end you can buy it, return it or move into a new Ford. Neither one is a trick. They're two tools, and the right one depends on how you live with a vehicle. How Many Miles Do You Drive in a Year? Start here, because miles sink more leases around here than anything else. A lease sets a mileage allowance when you sign, and Ford Credit charges for every mile over it when you turn the vehicle in. Southeast Missouri adds miles fast. A daily round trip up US 67 to a job in Festus or the St. Louis area, a few trips to Cape Girardeau for appointments and weekends at Clearwater Lake can add up quicker than people guess. Pull the last couple of years of oil change receipts and look at the odometer readings. That's your real number. Farmington driver tip Gravel county roads count too. If you live a few miles off MO 32 or MO 221 down a chip and seal or gravel road, add those daily miles to your estimate, along with the extra rock chips and dust they bring. If your yearly miles land well above a typical lease allowance and stay there, financing is usually the cleaner fit. If you're steady and predictable, a lease can work fine. How Long Do You Usually Keep a Vehicle? Some folks want a new Ford every three years with the latest tech and the factory warranty still running. A lease is built for that rhythm. Others drive a truck until the wheels fall off, and for them owning makes more sense. Owning builds equity over time. Once the loan is paid, every month you keep driving is a month without a payment, and the vehicle still has trade value when you're ready to move on. Ownership matters for coverage here too. Warranty Forever at Sam Scism Ford covers listed engine, transmission and drive axle parts for as long as you own the vehicle, regardless of miles, at no charge, when you follow the customary maintenance and keep records. It's written around owning, so it fits the buyer who plans to keep a Ford for years. If you're leaning toward a lease, ask our team how the plan applies before you sign. Miles sink more leases around here than anything else. Explore Ford Financing See Current Ford Offers Does a Work Truck Make Sense on a Lease? Think honestly about how the truck will live. A lease expects the vehicle back in good condition. Ford Credit lists things like broken or missing parts, poor quality repairs, mechanical or electrical problems and tires that don't match the vehicle as examples of excess wear and use. A Ford F-150 that hauls feed, drags a trailer through a muddy pasture gate and carries tools in the bed every day is going to pick up dents and scratches. That's what it's for. Owning it means those marks are your business and nobody else's. Modifications point the same way. Bed racks, toolboxes, a leveling kit or bigger tires are easy calls on a truck you own. On a lease, talk with us before you add anything so you know what the agreement allows. Businesses have another option. Sam Scism Ford arranges commercial loans and leases through our Finance Center, and our commercial team can spec upfits like service bodies and ladder racks to match. What Happens at the End of a Ford Lease? The end of a lease goes smoother when you plan a couple of months ahead. Ford Credit lays it out in a few steps. 1 Check your miles and condition Compare your odometer with the allowance in your agreement and walk around the vehicle with Ford's wear and use checklist. 2 Schedule the free pre inspection Ford Credit offers a complimentary pre inspection you can schedule within 60 days of your lease end date. It flags possible charges while there's still time to fix them or file an insurance claim. 3 Make repairs the right way Ford recommends repairs at a Ford dealer with genuine parts, and keeping every receipt. Our service team can help. 4 Pick your next move Buy the vehicle at the purchase price in your account, return it by the lease end date, or move into a new Ford. A disposition fee applies if your agreement shows one, and it may be waived when you buy or lease another new Ford. If the purchase price on your lease comes in under what the vehicle is worth on the market, that gap can work in your favor. Bring the paperwork in and we'll look at it with you. How Should You Talk Numbers With the Finance Team? Every lease and loan is different, so we don't post rates or payments in a blog. Programs and offers change, and your credit, term and vehicle all move the numbers. Come in with three things: an honest yearly mileage, how long you plan to keep the vehicle, and how you'll use it. Our finance team can run a lease and a loan side by side on the same Ford so you can see both. You can start with a credit application online, and if you have a trade, get an offer on it first. Sales hours are 8 AM to 6 PM Monday through Friday and 9 AM to 5 PM Saturday at 5019 Flat River Road. Warranty Forever Warranty Forever comes at no charge on every new Ford and most used vehicles sold at Sam Scism Ford. It covers listed engine, transmission and drive axle parts for as long as you own the vehicle, regardless of miles, with no deductible, when you follow the customary maintenance and keep records. See the dealer for details. How it works Lease Basics What is Ford Credit Red Carpet Lease? + Red Carpet Lease is Ford Credit's consumer lease. It lets you drive a new Ford for a set term with a mileage allowance, then buy it, return it or move into another Ford. Can I lease a used Ford? + Lease programs mostly apply to new vehicles. Ask our finance team what's available for the specific vehicle you're looking at. Who decides my lease mileage allowance? + You choose it from the options offered when you sign. Picking a realistic number up front costs less than paying for extra miles at the end. Miles and Wear What happens if I go over my lease miles? + You pay a per mile charge for every mile over the allowance in your agreement when you turn the vehicle in. What counts as excess wear on a Ford lease? + Ford Credit lists broken or missing parts, poor repairs, mechanical or electrical problems and mismatched tires among the examples. Normal wear is allowed. Can I put accessories on a leased truck? + Talk with us before adding anything. Items that change the vehicle may need to come off before return, so owning is simpler if you plan to modify. Owning and Equity Why do people finance instead of lease? + Owners have no mileage limits, can customize freely and build equity. Once the loan is paid off, there's no payment while the vehicle still holds trade value. Does Warranty Forever cover a leased Ford? + Warranty Forever is written to cover listed powertrain parts for as long as you own the vehicle. Ask our team how it applies before choosing a lease. Can I trade in a vehicle I still owe money on? + We appraise vehicles with a loan or lease balance, any make or condition. The payoff gets handled as part of the deal. Lease End Can I buy my Ford at the end of the lease? + Get the purchase price through your Ford Credit account, then work out the final figure, including taxes and fees, with the dealer. Is there a free lease end inspection? + Ford Credit offers a complimentary pre inspection you can schedule within 60 days of your lease end date, with results available online. Is there a fee to return a leased Ford? + A disposition fee applies if your agreement lists one. Qualifying customers who buy or lease another new Ford or Lincoln may get it waived. Getting Started Where can I see current Ford lease and finance offers? + Manufacturer offers are posted on our specials page. They change often, so the finance team can confirm what applies to the vehicle you want. Can a business lease a Ford truck? + Sam Scism Ford arranges commercial loans and leases through our Finance Center, and the commercial team can set up upfits for work trucks. How do I get started on financing at Sam Scism Ford? + Fill out the secure credit application online or stop by 5019 Flat River Road. The finance team can compare a lease and a loan for you. Run the numbers Start a secure credit application online. Apply for Credit Bring your trade Get an offer on your current vehicle, any make. Value Your Trade

Compare  |  Farmington, MO Half ton trucks do every job around here. They pull the boat to Wappapello in July, haul feed in January and carry the kids to practice in between. Two of them come up in nearly every truck conversation we have. Walk the lot at Sam Scism Ford on a Saturday and you'll hear it. Somebody's dad drove a Ford, somebody's brother swears by his Ram, and the truck they're shopping has to be good at a little bit of everything. The Ford F-150 and the Ram 1500 are both strong answers. They split on a few things that matter around Farmington: the engines on the order sheet for 2026, how much help you get hooking up a trailer, how each one rides on a washboard county road, and what the bed and cab do for a family. This guide sticks to those differences. For the full spec sheet, our Ford F-150 comparison page lines the trucks up side by side. Quick answer: The Ford F-150 gives you four mainstream engines, including a PowerBoost full hybrid, a towing rating of up to 13,500 pounds when properly equipped, and work tools like Pro Trailer Hitch Assist and Pro Power Onboard. The Ram 1500 brings back the 5.7L HEMI V8 for 2026 and rides on coil springs, so it suits drivers who run empty most of the week and want a softer ride. Ford F-150 max tow Up to 13,500 lb, 3.5L EcoBoost, properly equipped Ram 1500 for 2026 5.7L HEMI V8 with eTorque returns, 395 hp Rear suspension Ford: leaf springs; Ram: coil springs In this post Engine choices for 2026 Towing and hitching Ride on back roads Family and daily use Warranty and service Which one fits you How Do the 2026 Ford F-150 and Ram 1500 Engines Compare? The 2026 Ford F-150 gives you four mainstream engines. The 2.7L EcoBoost V6 makes 325 horsepower and 400 lb-ft. The 3.5L EcoBoost V6 is rated at up to 400 horsepower and 500 lb-ft, and it's the one to pick for the heaviest towing. The 5.0L V8 makes 400 horsepower and 410 lb-ft for folks who want a V8 under the hood. Then there's the 3.5L PowerBoost full hybrid, rated at up to 430 horsepower. That hybrid is easier to get this year. Ford added it to the STX for 2026, so you no longer have to step up to an XLT or higher to put one in the driveway. If you idle at job sites or run a lot of stop and go miles through Park Hills and Desloge, it's worth a test drive. The 2026 Ram 1500 made its own headline. Ram brought back the 5.7L HEMI V8 with its eTorque mild hybrid system, rated at 395 horsepower and 410 lb-ft. It's offered across most of the lineup, from Tradesman and Express up through Limited and Longhorn, though not on Tungsten or RHO. Ram also keeps the 3.6L Pentastar V6 on mainstream trims and its 3.0L Hurricane twin turbo inline six, rated at 420 horsepower, or 540 in high output form. Both trucks will do the daily work. The F-150 gives you more ways to build it, including the hybrid. The Ram makes sense if a V8 rumble and a big inline six are what you're after. Which Truck Makes Towing Easier, the Ford F-150 or the Ram 1500? Tow ratings swing a lot with cab, bed, axle and engine. The Ford F-150 is rated at up to 13,500 pounds with the 3.5L EcoBoost when properly equipped, and payload reaches 2,440 pounds on the right build. Compare the exact trucks you're looking at, not brochure maximums, because the window sticker number is the one that counts. Where the F-150 pulls ahead is the stuff that makes towing easier when you're alone with the trailer: Pro Trailer Hitch Assist: available on XLT and up, it steers, accelerates and brakes to line the hitch ball up with a conventional trailer while you hold a button. Pro Power Onboard: comes with the PowerBoost hybrid at 2.0 kW, with a 7.2 kW version available, so you can run tools, a camper or lights off the truck. BlueCruise: available hands free highway driving on select trims for long stretches of divided highway. The Ram 1500 handles a trailer well too, with an 8 speed automatic and available air suspension that levels the truck under a load. Pick whichever matches the trailer you own. A bass boat and a utility trailer don't ask the same thing of a truck as a 30 foot camper. Farmington driver tip Take the test drive with your own trailer if you can. Backing a boat down the ramp at Lake Wappapello or a stock trailer into a tight barn lot tells you more than any spec sheet, and Pro Trailer Hitch Assist earns its keep on a cold morning when nobody's around to guide you back. Which Rides Better on Gravel and County Roads? This is where the two trucks are built differently. The Ram 1500 uses a five link coil spring rear suspension, and empty, on a rough stretch of county road off MO 32, a coil spring truck usually feels softer. An available air suspension can level it when the bed is loaded. The Ford F-150 sticks with leaf springs out back. Empty, it rides firmer than the Ram. Put a load of fencing supplies in the bed or a trailer on the hitch and it settles in, which is why so many people who work their trucks every day still prefer leaf springs. Ask yourself how many days a week the bed is loaded. If it's most of them, the F-150's setup is built for that life. If the truck mostly carries you and a lunch box up US 67, the Ram's ride is a fair point in its favor. Shop Ford F-150 Inventory See Side by Side Specs Which Works Better as a Family Truck? Both crew cabs carry four adults in comfort, so the deciding things are smaller. On the Ford F-150, the available Pro Access Tailgate swings open like a door, which puts the bed within easier reach when you're grabbing groceries or a car seat bag. You also get the hybrid option and BlueCruise for long highway runs to see family. The Ram 1500 counters with the available RamBox storage built into the bed sides and a big available touchscreen inside. Its quieter, softer ride when empty is a real plus for a truck that spends weekdays as the family car. The window sticker number is the one that counts. How Do Warranty and Local Service Compare? Ram made a big move on coverage. It extended its 10 year or 100,000 mile powertrain limited warranty to all 2026 Ram pickups, including the 1500. Fleet buyers don't qualify and it doesn't transfer to a second owner. Ford's factory powertrain coverage on the F-150 is 5 years or 60,000 miles. Buying your truck here changes that picture. Every new Ford sold at Sam Scism Ford comes with Warranty Forever at no charge. It covers listed engine, transmission and drive axle parts for as long as you own the truck, regardless of miles, with no deductible, as long as you follow the customary maintenance in the agreement and keep records. It's a dealer plan, not a factory warranty, so ask us how it applies to you. Service stays close to home. Ford trained technicians work on F-150s every day at 5019 Flat River Road, and you can book through the Ford app or by calling 573-430-1693. If the truck works for a business, our commercial team can set up upfits and fleet ordering. So Which Half Ton Truck Fits Your Life? Think about the trailer you pull, how often the bed is full, and who rides along on the weekend. Fits you if Ford F-150 You tow often and want up to 13,500 pounds of rating on the right build You hitch up alone and want Pro Trailer Hitch Assist You'd use the PowerBoost hybrid or Pro Power Onboard for tools or camping The bed is loaded most days and you want leaf springs under it Fits you if Ram 1500 You drive empty most of the week and want a softer coil spring ride You've waited for the 5.7L HEMI V8 to come back You like the RamBox bed storage idea A long factory powertrain warranty on a retail purchase matters most Drive both if you're torn. Then come drive the Ford F-150 the way you'd really use it, trailer and all. Warranty Forever Every new Ford F-150 sold at Sam Scism Ford includes Warranty Forever at no charge. Listed engine, transmission and drive axle parts are covered for as long as you own the truck, regardless of miles, with no deductible. Keep up with the customary maintenance and records. See the dealer for details. How it works Engines and Power Is the HEMI V8 back in the Ram 1500 for 2026? + Ram returned the 5.7L HEMI V8 with eTorque for the 2026 Ram 1500, rated at 395 horsepower and 410 lb-ft. It's offered on most trims but not Tungsten or RHO. Does the Ford F-150 still offer a V8? + The 2026 Ford F-150 offers a 5.0L V8 rated at 400 horsepower and 410 lb-ft, alongside two EcoBoost V6 engines and the PowerBoost hybrid. Which Ford F-150 trims offer the PowerBoost hybrid? + For 2026, Ford made the hybrid available on the STX as well as XLT, Lariat, King Ranch and Platinum. Our sales team can show you which hybrid trucks are in stock. Towing and Hauling How much can a Ford F-150 tow? + A properly equipped 2026 F-150 with the 3.5L EcoBoost is rated at up to 13,500 pounds. Ratings vary by cab, bed, axle and engine, so check the specific truck. What is Pro Trailer Hitch Assist? + It's an available F-150 feature on XLT and higher trims that steers, accelerates and brakes the truck to line up the hitch ball with a conventional trailer while you hold a button. Can a Ford F-150 power tools or a campsite? + Pro Power Onboard comes with the PowerBoost hybrid, and a 7.2 kW version is available for bigger loads like saws, compressors or a camper. Ride and Comfort Why does the Ram 1500 ride softer when empty? + Ram uses a five link coil spring rear suspension, which tends to absorb bumps better without a load than the leaf springs on the F-150. Is a leaf spring truck better for hauling? + Plenty of owners who load their trucks daily prefer leaf springs for heavy, repeated loads. A coil or air setup can carry weight too, so the choice comes down to how you use the truck. Does the Ford F-150 offer hands free driving? + BlueCruise hands free highway driving is available on select F-150 trims for use on qualified divided highways. A subscription applies after any included period. Warranty and Service Does Ram offer a longer powertrain warranty than Ford? + Ram's 10 year or 100,000 mile powertrain limited warranty covers 2026 pickups for non fleet buyers and doesn't transfer. Sam Scism Ford adds Warranty Forever powertrain coverage on every new Ford it sells. Is Warranty Forever a factory warranty? + It's a dealer plan from Sam Scism Ford, separate from Ford's factory coverage. It applies as long as you own the vehicle and follow the maintenance schedule in the agreement. Where can I get my Ford F-150 serviced near Farmington? + Our service center at 5019 Flat River Road is open 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM weekdays, closed noon to 1:00 PM. Book through the Ford app or call 573-430-1693. Buying and Trading Where can I compare F-150 and Ram 1500 specs side by side? + Our Ford F-150 comparison page lines up the F-150 against the Ram 1500, Chevrolet Silverado 1500 and Toyota Tundra. Can I trade in a Ram toward a Ford F-150? + We appraise trucks of any make or condition, including ones with a loan balance. Start online for an offer and finish the appraisal at the store. Can I order an F-150 built the way I want? + A factory order lets you pick the cab, bed, engine and packages. Ford doesn't charge extra for ordering, and lead times vary. Plan the payment Explore financing for your next Ford F-150. Finance Center Trade in your truck Get an offer on your current truck, any make. Value Your Trade

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

Buying  |  Farmington, MO Ford Blue Advantage comes in Gold and Blue. This is what each tier covers, how the money back guarantee works and where Warranty Forever fits on a qualifying used vehicle. Shop used in December and you'll see a lot of different labels. One truck says certified, the next says inspected, and the one after that doesn't say anything. Those aren't the same promise. What counts is the paperwork behind the sticker. Ford Blue Advantage is Ford's certified pre-owned program, and it comes in two main tiers, Gold Certified and Blue Certified. You'll find both at Ford dealers like Sam Scism Ford in Farmington. Each comes with a history report and a money back guarantee. Where they split is which vehicles qualify and how long the coverage runs. Quick answer: Gold Certified is for Ford vehicles up to 6 years old with under 80,000 miles and adds a 172 point inspection, a 12 month or 12,000 mile Comprehensive Limited Warranty and a 7 year or 100,000 mile Powertrain Limited Warranty. Blue Certified covers any make up to 10 years old with under 150,000 miles, with a 139 point inspection and a 90 day or 4,000 mile Comprehensive Limited Warranty. Both carry a 14 day or 1,000 mile Money Back Guarantee and a CARFAX report. Gold Certified Ford only, up to 6 years, under 80,000 miles Blue Certified Any make, up to 10 years, under 150,000 miles Both tiers 14 day or 1,000 mile Money Back Guarantee In this post What Blue Advantage is Gold vs Blue What the inspection means Money back guarantee Warranty Forever on certified What Is Ford Blue Advantage? Ford Blue Advantage replaced Ford's older certified program in 2022 and split things into tiers. A newer, lower mile Ford can earn Gold. Older vehicles and other brands can still earn Blue, so they're not just sold with nothing behind them. Every Blue Advantage vehicle goes through a set inspection and comes with a CARFAX Vehicle History Report. You also get 24/7 roadside assistance for a period that depends on the tier. Ford also offers a separate EV Certified tier for electric models such as the Ford Mustang Mach-E, with its own battery coverage. Certification is a Ford program, so those warranties come from Ford, not from us. Warranty Forever is our own dealer plan, and we'll get to it further down. How Is Gold Certified Different From Blue Certified? Gold Certified Eligible vehicles: Ford models up to 6 years old with under 80,000 miles. Inspection: 172 points. Comprehensive Limited Warranty: 12 months or 12,000 miles, whichever comes first. Powertrain Limited Warranty: 7 years or 100,000 miles, whichever comes first, counted from the vehicle's original in service date. Blue Certified Eligible vehicles: Any make and model up to 10 years old with under 150,000 miles. Inspection: 139 points. Comprehensive Limited Warranty: 90 days or 4,000 miles, whichever comes first. Gold is for somebody who wants a late model Ford F-150 or Ford Explorer with long powertrain coverage. Blue works if you're on a tighter budget and looking at something older, or a different brand, but you still want an inspection and a short warranty behind it. This next part trips people up. The powertrain coverage on a Gold Certified Ford is counted from the original in service date, not the day you buy it. A five year old truck has a lot less of those seven years left than a two year old one. Ask for the in service date when you compare. The powertrain coverage on a Gold Certified Ford is counted from the original in service date, not the day you buy it. What Does the Certification Inspection Check? It's a set checklist a Ford dealer technician works through before a vehicle can be sold under the Blue Advantage name. If it can't meet the standard for its tier, it doesn't get certified. Gold Certified Fords get the longer 172 point list, and Blue gets a 139 point list built to work on any make. Either way, you can ask to see the completed checklist. Farmington driver tip Ask to see the completed inspection checklist and the CARFAX report together. A truck that spent years pulling a stock trailer down MO 32 will show it somewhere, and the two side by side make it easier to spot. How Does the Money Back Guarantee Work? Every Blue Advantage vehicle carries a 14 day or 1,000 mile Money Back Guarantee, whichever comes first, counted from the sale date and the mileage on the bill of sale. That's time to drive it on your own roads and make sure it works for you. There are conditions, and you'll want to know them: The vehicle has to come back in the same condition it was sold in, apart from normal wear. A vehicle with a lien or other encumbrance can't be taken back. You don't get your original trade in back. Choosing a different vehicle may mean a new credit application with different terms. If you returned a Blue Advantage vehicle in the previous six months, you're not eligible. It's offered through participating Ford dealers, so have your sales consultant walk you through how it works here before you sign. Shop Ford Certified Browse All Used Can Warranty Forever Apply to a Certified Vehicle? On a lot of them, yes. Sam Scism Ford offers Warranty Forever at no charge on every new Ford and on most used vehicles we sell. It's our plan, separate from Ford's certified warranties, and it covers listed engine, transmission and drive axle components for as long as you own the vehicle, regardless of miles. So a qualifying certified vehicle could carry Ford's Blue Advantage coverage and Warranty Forever both. Not every used vehicle qualifies. Ask which ones on the lot do, and read both agreements so you know which one covers what. Warranty Forever has its own rules. You'll need to follow the customary maintenance in the agreement and keep records. Within 150 miles of the dealership, covered repairs get done here. It doesn't transfer to the next owner, and it doesn't include towing or a rental. Ford's certified warranties have their own terms, and we'll go over both with you at the desk. Warranty Forever Most used vehicles and every new Ford sold at Sam Scism Ford include Warranty Forever at no charge. Listed powertrain parts are covered for as long as you own the vehicle, with no deductible and covered parts and labor at 100 percent, when you keep up the customary maintenance and records. It's a dealer plan, not a factory warranty. See the dealer for details. How it works Program Basics What does Ford Blue Advantage mean on a used vehicle? + The vehicle passed Ford's certified pre-owned inspection and comes with Ford backed coverage, a CARFAX report and a money back guarantee. Whether it's Gold or Blue decides how much coverage you get. Can a non Ford vehicle be certified? + Other makes can qualify for Blue Certified if they're up to 10 years old, under 150,000 miles and pass the 139 point inspection. Gold is Ford only. Is there a certified tier for electric vehicles? + Ford offers an EV Certified tier for electric models such as the Ford Mustang Mach-E, with its own inspection and battery coverage. Call and ask which EVs we have certified right now. Gold Certified How old can a Gold Certified Ford be? + Up to 6 years old with under 80,000 miles when it's certified. When does the Gold powertrain warranty start? + The 7 year or 100,000 mile Powertrain Limited Warranty is counted from the vehicle's original in service date, so remaining coverage depends on its age and miles. What does the 12 month comprehensive warranty cover? + It's a broad limited warranty good for 12 months or 12,000 miles, whichever comes first. We can show you the full list of what's covered and what isn't. Blue Certified What warranty comes with Blue Certified? + A 90 day or 4,000 mile Comprehensive Limited Warranty, whichever comes first, along with roadside assistance for that tier's period. Who is Blue Certified a good fit for? + Somebody shopping older or higher mile vehicles, or another brand, who still wants an inspection and a short warranty behind it. How many points are on the Blue inspection? + The Blue Certified checklist has 139 points and is designed to work on any make. Buying Protection How long do I have to return a certified vehicle? + The Money Back Guarantee runs 14 days or 1,000 miles, whichever comes first, from the date and mileage on the bill of sale, at participating dealers and with conditions. Do I get my trade in back if I return the vehicle? + You won't get it back. Keep that in mind before you use the guarantee. Is a vehicle history report included? + Every Blue Advantage vehicle includes a free CARFAX Vehicle History Report. Shopping at Sam Scism Ford Does Warranty Forever stack with Ford certified coverage? + On qualifying used vehicles, Warranty Forever comes at no charge alongside Ford's certified warranties. Ask which ones qualify and read both agreements. Can I finance a certified pre-owned Ford? + The Finance Center arranges loans on certified and other used vehicles. Current used offers, when available, are posted on the used specials page. How do I see certified vehicles in stock? + Browse the Ford Certified page online or visit 5019 Flat River Road in Farmington. Call sales at 573-430-1687 to check on a specific vehicle. Finance a certified Ford Explore loan options with our Finance Center. Finance Center Have a trade Get an online offer before you visit. Get Your Trade Offer

Buying  |  Farmington, MO If you're thinking about trading before the new year, start here. This covers what our appraisers look at, which records help and how your payoff fits in. Late November is when a lot of folks around Farmington start running the numbers. The truck's got another winter of gravel roads ahead of it, and the 2026 Fords are on the lot. Nearly everybody starts with the same thing. They want to know what their trade's worth. It depends on a handful of things, and you've got some say in a few of them. If you know how the appraisal works before you come in, the number shouldn't surprise you. Quick answer: Trade in value comes down to mileage, condition, history, equipment and what buyers in this market want right now, and service records and a clean vehicle help with every one of those. Get an online offer first, bring your title or payoff details and both keys to the appraisal, and know whether you have equity or owe more than the vehicle is worth before you shop. Start here Online trade offer, then an in person appraisal Bring along Title or payoff info, service records, both keys Buying required No, Sam Scism Ford will buy your vehicle outright In this post What drives appraisal value Records and condition Timing at year end Payoff and equity Start with an online offer What Drives the Value of a Trade In? An appraiser is working out two things. One is what it'll take to get your vehicle ready to sell. The other is what the next buyer will pay for it. Mileage and age: Every appraisal starts here. Lower miles for the year usually help. Mechanical condition: How the engine, transmission, brakes and tires check out on a short drive and a walk around. Appearance: Dents, rust, windshield chips, stains and odors all mean reconditioning work. History: Accident reports, title status and the number of owners. Equipment: Trim level, four wheel drive, towing packages and options that buyers here look for. Local demand: A crew cab pickup or a three row SUV can draw more interest in Southeast Missouri than a small sedan. Some of that's fixed. Nobody can take miles back off a truck that's made the run up US 67 every workday for five years. Condition and timing, though, you can do something about. Do Service Records and a Clean Vehicle Change the Number? More than most people expect. A folder of service records tells the appraiser the vehicle was looked after, so there's less chance of a surprise after it's resold. Records from any shop count. Dealer records tied to the VIN are just easier to check. Then there's condition. You don't need to fix everything before an appraisal, and big repairs right before a trade rarely pay you back dollar for dollar. Small stuff is different. What is worth doing before the appraisal? Wash it and clean out the cab, bed and cargo area. Gravel dust and red clay hide the true condition of the paint and interior. Find both keys and the owner's manual. A missing key fob is a cost the appraiser has to account for. Note any warning lights and recent repairs so nothing comes as a surprise on the drive. Leave aftermarket parts on unless you plan to reuse them, and tell the appraiser what was added. A folder of service records tells the appraiser the vehicle was looked after. Farmington driver tip If your truck spends weekends at St. Joe State Park or on county gravel, give the underside and wheel wells a good rinse before you bring it in. Packed mud can look like rust from a few feet away, and it slows the inspection down. Is Year End a Good Time to Trade? Your vehicle loses a little value as the miles add up and as it gets a model year older. Waiting through another winter usually won't help the number. If it's about due for tires or brakes and you were planning to change vehicles anyway, trading first can make sense. The calendar matters on the new side too. By late fall the 2026 Fords are arriving next to the remaining 2025 models, and Ford's offers change through the year. Current programs are on the manufacturer specials page, and a sales consultant can walk you through what applies to the vehicle you want. Weather plays a small part. A clean, dry vehicle inspects better than one caked in road salt, so some folks get the appraisal done before the first ice storm. How Do Loan Payoff and Equity Work on a Trade? If you still owe on your current vehicle, that's fine. The dealer pays off the lender as part of the trade. What you care about is the gap between the trade value and the payoff. 1 Get your payoff amount Call your lender or check your account online for a current payoff figure. It's usually a little different from your statement balance because of interest. 2 Compare it to the offer If the trade value is higher than the payoff, the difference is equity, and it can go toward your next vehicle. 3 Plan for negative equity If you owe more than it's worth, the difference has to be paid or added to the new loan. Better to know that early, before you pick a vehicle and term. 4 Bring the paperwork A title if you own it free and clear, or your lender name and account number if you don't, plus registration and photo ID for everyone on the title. You can trade a leased vehicle too, and we'll go over the lease payoff with you. The Finance Center can explain how equity or a balance affects a new loan before you sign anything. Get Your Trade Offer Shop New Inventory Why Start With an Online Trade Offer? An online offer gives you a number to plan around before you walk in. At Sam Scism Ford, the Get Your Trade Offer tool asks for the VIN or plate, mileage, options and condition, then gives you a starting value. The final figure comes after an in person inspection and appraisal at 5019 Flat River Road, since no website can spot a cracked windshield or hear a bad wheel bearing. Be straight with the form. If you mark it excellent with the check engine light on, the gap at appraisal just gets bigger. You don't have to buy a vehicle to sell us one. We'll appraise any make in any condition and buy it outright if that's what works for you. Details are on the sell your car page. If you're trading toward something newer but not new, the used inventory has Ford Blue Advantage Certified vehicles and other makes to compare. Warranty Forever Every new Ford and most used vehicles sold at Sam Scism Ford come with Warranty Forever at no charge. It covers listed engine, transmission and drive axle parts for as long as you own the vehicle, regardless of miles, with no deductible, as long as you follow the customary maintenance in the agreement and keep records. See the dealer for details. How it works Trade In Value Basics How is my trade in value figured? + An appraiser looks at mileage, age, condition, history, equipment and current demand for that vehicle, then estimates reconditioning costs. The online offer gives you a starting point and the in person inspection sets the final number. Does high mileage kill my trade value? + Higher miles lower the number, but a well kept high mileage truck with records can still trade well. Condition and demand matter just as much. Will aftermarket wheels or a lift kit raise the value? + Usually not by what you paid for them, and some buyers prefer a stock vehicle. Let the appraiser know what was added and keep the original parts if you have them. Records and Preparation What paperwork should I bring to trade my vehicle? + Bring the title or your lender name and account number, current registration, photo ID for everyone on the title, both keys and any service records you have. Should I fix dents or scratches before trading in? + A good cleaning and cheap little fixes are worth doing. Bigger body or mechanical work rarely comes back in full on a trade, so get the appraisal first. Do service records from another shop count? + Any documented oil changes, tire work or repairs help, wherever they were done. Timing Your Trade Is it smarter to trade before or after winter? + Values slip as miles and age add up, so waiting rarely helps. Trading before it needs tires or brakes can save you that expense, too. Do new model years affect my trade value? + Your vehicle gets one model year older when the next one arrives, which can nudge the value down. That's one reason a lot of owners trade in the fall. Are there Ford offers on new vehicles right now? + Ford programs change through the year, so check the manufacturer specials page for what's running now. A sales consultant can confirm which ones apply to the vehicle you want. Loans, Leases and Equity Can I trade a vehicle I still owe money on? + Most people do. We pay off your lender as part of the deal, any equity goes toward the next vehicle, and any shortfall gets handled in the new purchase. What happens if I owe more than my car is worth? + That gap is called negative equity, and it can be paid at signing or added to the new loan. The Finance Center can show you how each choice changes the numbers. Can I trade in a leased Ford? + You can. Bring your lease account details and we'll get the payoff from the leasing company. Selling and Next Steps Do I have to buy a car to sell mine to Sam Scism Ford? + You don't. We'll appraise any make or condition and can buy it outright. How accurate is the online trade offer? + About as accurate as what you put in. The final value gets confirmed after we inspect and appraise it in person. Where do I get my vehicle appraised in Farmington? + Bring it to Sam Scism Ford at 5019 Flat River Road. Sales hours are Monday through Friday 8 AM to 6 PM and Saturday 9 AM to 5 PM, or call 573-430-1687 to set a time. Sell it outright Sell us your vehicle, any make, with no purchase required. Sell Your Car Rather shop used Browse pre owned trucks, SUVs and cars in stock. Used Inventory

Compare  |  Farmington, MO Hay's in and the cattle trailer is parked for winter, so it's a good time to think about the next work truck. Around St. Francois County, that talk usually comes down to two heavy duty pickups. Ask around at the feed store in Farmington or a job site in Fredericktown and you'll hear strong opinions about heavy duty trucks. In the three quarter ton class, it's mostly the Ford Super Duty F-250 against the Ram 2500. Either one will pull a loaded gooseneck all day. You can get both as a bare bones work truck or a loaded family hauler. The differences are in the engines, how they ride empty and the towing tech, and that's what we'll walk through here, no spec table. Quick answer: The Ford Super Duty F-250 offers gas V8 or Power Stroke diesel power, including a High Output diesel rated at 500 horsepower and 1,200 lb-ft, plus trailering tools like Pro Trailer Hitch Assist and Onboard Scales, so it suits heavy towing and fleet work. The Ram 2500 pairs a HEMI V8 or Cummins diesel with a coil spring rear suspension that rides smoother when empty, so it suits owners who drive unloaded most of the week. Ford Super Duty F-250 diesel High Output Power Stroke: 500 hp, 1,200 lb-ft Ram 2500 diesel Cummins High Output: 430 hp, 1,075 lb-ft Rear suspension Ford: leaf springs; Ram: coil springs In this post Engine choices Towing technology Ride and suspension Farm and fleet use Warranty and service Which one fits you How Do the Ford Super Duty F-250 and Ram 2500 Engines Compare? You've got more ways to build a Ford Super Duty F-250. Gas buyers choose between Ford's V8s, including the 7.3L V8. Diesel buyers get the 6.7L Power Stroke V8, including a High Output version rated at 500 horsepower and 1,200 lb-ft of torque. Every Super Duty uses a 10 speed TorqShift automatic. Ram keeps the 2500 lineup tighter. The gas engine is a 6.4L HEMI V8 rated at 405 horsepower and 429 lb-ft. The diesel is the 6.7L Cummins inline six in High Output form, rated at 430 horsepower and 1,075 lb-ft, paired with an 8 speed TorqueFlite HD automatic. The Cummins has a loyal following around here, and we get why. If the truck pulls a stock trailer once a week and sits the rest of the time, a gas V8 on either side keeps buying and maintaining it simpler. Towing heavy every day is different. That's when the diesel earns its keep. Which Truck Makes Hooking Up and Towing Easier? Towing ratings on both trucks move a lot with cab, bed, axle, engine and hitch. Compare the specific trucks you're considering instead of brochure maximums. The bigger difference is in the tools that make hooking up and towing easier. The Ford Super Duty F-250 has a long list of available trailering features: Pro Trailer Hitch Assist: backs the truck up and lines the hitch ball up with the trailer for you. Onboard Scales with Smart Hitch: estimates the weight in the bed and gives tongue weight guidance. Pro Trailer Backup Assist: lets you steer a trailer in reverse with a knob. Blind Spot Information System for fifth wheel and gooseneck: watches beside the trailer, not just the truck. Trailer Navigation: plans routes based on the trailer's size and weight. The Ram 2500 has its own set, with a 360 degree camera, trailer reverse steering control, power telescoping tow mirrors and trailer tire pressure and brake monitoring. Both trucks can be ordered ready for a fifth wheel or gooseneck. Compare the specific trucks you're considering instead of brochure maximums. Farmington driver tip If you back a gooseneck into a tight barn lot or a muddy field gate, spend ten minutes with the trailer tools on a test drive. Hitching up by yourself on a cold morning is when Pro Trailer Hitch Assist starts to look pretty good. Which Rides Better on Gravel and Back Roads? Out back, they're built differently. The Ram 2500 uses a five link coil spring rear suspension, and you can get rear air suspension that levels the truck when it's loaded. Empty, on a washboard county road, a coil spring truck generally rides smoother. The Ford Super Duty F-250 sticks with leaf springs, the setup many farmers and contractors trust for heavy, repeated loads and for mounting upfit bodies. Empty, it rides firmer than the Ram. Put a gooseneck on it or a flatbed full of fence posts and it settles right down. For rough ground, Ford offers the Tremor Off-Road Package with a Dana front axle and limited slip differential, 35 inch tires and off road tuned suspension. Ram builds the 2500 Power Wagon as its factory off road model. Either one will handle a muddy pasture better than a standard truck. Shop Ford Super Duty Inventory Order a Super Duty Your Way Which Truck Fits a Farm, Business or Fleet? If the truck's going to work, there's more to it than the truck. The Ford Super Duty F-250 offers Pro Power Onboard with 2.0 kW of exportable power for tools and lights, an embedded 5G modem, and Ford Pro Telematics for owners who want to track trucks and maintenance across a fleet. Sam Scism Ford runs a commercial fleet department led by Commercial Fleet Manager Matt Eaton. They work with farms, contractors and city and county fleets across Southeast Missouri, and they can set up a Super Duty with a service, utility, flatbed or dump body, shelving, ladder racks or a liftgate. They also handle factory orders, and commercial loans and leases go through our Finance Center. See what the commercial department handles. Ram has a couple things work buyers like too. There's the RamBox bed storage option, and an available 14.5 inch touchscreen in the cab. How Do Warranty and Local Service Compare? Ram made a strong move on coverage this year. It offers a 10 year or 100,000 mile powertrain limited warranty to the original retail owner on most 2026 Ram trucks, including the 2500. Fleet and commercial buyers don't qualify, and later owners get a shorter term. Ford's factory powertrain coverage on the Super Duty is 5 years or 60,000 miles, and Power Stroke diesel engine parts are covered for 5 years or 100,000 miles. Buying here changes that math. Every new Ford we sell, including a Super Duty, comes with Warranty Forever at no charge. It covers listed engine, transmission and drive axle parts for as long as you own the truck, regardless of miles, with no deductible, as long as you follow the customary maintenance in the agreement and keep records. It's a dealer plan, not a factory warranty, so ask us how it fits the way you use the truck. And service is right here in town. Our Ford trained technicians work on Super Duty trucks at 5019 Flat River Road, and Ford Mobile Service can handle routine work at your farm or shop depending on distance and availability. You can book through the Ford app or call 573-430-1693. So Which Heavy Duty Truck Fits Your Work? Start with how many days a week the truck's loaded. Then think about whether it'll ever carry an upfit body. Fits you if Ford Super Duty F-250 You tow heavy and want the High Output Power Stroke diesel Hitching alone matters and you want Pro Trailer Hitch Assist and Onboard Scales You need an upfit body, Pro Power Onboard or fleet telematics You want a choice of gas V8s, including the 7.3L Fits you if Ram 2500 You drive empty most days and want a softer coil spring ride You have your heart set on a Cummins inline six You want rear air suspension or the Power Wagon off road model A long factory powertrain warranty for a retail purchase matters most To see trims, packages and equipment for the current truck, check our 2026 Ford Super Duty F-250 research page, then come drive one with your own trailer hooked up. Warranty Forever Every new Ford and most used vehicles sold at Sam Scism Ford include Warranty Forever at no charge. Listed engine, transmission and drive axle parts are covered for as long as you own the vehicle, regardless of miles, with no deductible. Keep up with the customary maintenance and records. See the dealer for details. How it works Engines and Power Which has more torque, the Ford Super Duty F-250 or the Ram 2500? + The High Output Power Stroke available in the F-250 is rated at 1,200 lb-ft, while the Ram 2500's High Output Cummins is rated at 1,075 lb-ft. Either one's plenty for farm towing. What gas engines does the Ford Super Duty offer? + Super Duty buyers can choose from Ford's gas V8s, including the 7.3L, depending on trim. If you only tow now and then, gas keeps the cost of buying and maintaining it down. Is the Cummins the only diesel in the Ram 2500? + The Ram 2500 uses the 6.7L Cummins High Output inline six as its diesel, rated at 430 horsepower and 1,075 lb-ft, with an 8 speed automatic. Towing and Hauling How much can a Ford Super Duty F-250 tow? + Ratings depend on cab, bed, engine, axle and hitch type, so the answer varies truck to truck. Our sales team can pull the rating for any specific F-250 on the lot. What is Pro Trailer Hitch Assist? + It's an available Super Duty feature. You hold a button and the truck backs up to the trailer and lines the ball up with the coupler. Can I order a Super Duty ready for a gooseneck? + You can order fifth wheel and gooseneck prep from the factory. With a custom order you pick the exact cab, bed, engine and towing equipment. Ride and Off Road Why does the Ram 2500 ride smoother when empty? + It uses a five link coil spring rear suspension instead of leaf springs, and coil springs tend to soak up bumps better without a load. Does Ford make an off road Super Duty? + The Tremor Off-Road Package adds a Dana front axle with a limited slip differential, 35 inch tires and off road tuned suspension. Are leaf springs better for heavy loads? + Many farm and fleet owners prefer leaf springs for repeated heavy loads and upfit bodies. Coil and air setups carry weight fine too, so it comes down to how you use the truck. Warranty and Service Does Ram have a longer warranty than Ford? + Ram offers a 10 year or 100,000 mile powertrain limited warranty to original retail owners on most 2026 trucks, excluding fleet buyers. Sam Scism Ford adds Warranty Forever powertrain coverage on every new Ford it sells. Does Warranty Forever cover a farm truck? + Warranty Forever applies to every new Ford sold at Sam Scism Ford when you follow the customary maintenance and keep records. Ask us how the agreement handles the way you use yours. Can Ford Mobile Service come to my farm? + Mobile Service technicians can do oil and filter changes, brakes, batteries, fluids and other routine work at your location, depending on distance and availability. Buying and Fleet Does Sam Scism Ford have a commercial fleet department? + Our commercial team, led by Commercial Fleet Manager Matt Eaton, handles Super Duty, F-150, Transit and chassis cab trucks for farms, trades and municipal fleets across Southeast Missouri. Can you install a flatbed or service body on a Super Duty? + We arrange upfits including service, utility, flatbed and dump bodies, shelving, ladder racks and liftgates. Tell us what the truck's going to do and we'll spec it from there. Can I trade in my current truck toward a Super Duty? + We appraise trucks of any make and condition, including ones with a loan balance. Get an offer online, then we'll finish the appraisal at the store. Running a fleet or farm Talk with our commercial team about upfits and ordering. Commercial Trucks Trading in a truck Get an offer on your current truck, any make. Value Your Trade

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

Compare  |  Farmington, MO Two three row SUVs we see on a lot of Farmington shopping lists, and how they stack up on the stuff families around St. Francois County do every week. School's back, ball practice is four nights a week, and the old crossover is starting to feel small. That's usually when families in Farmington, Park Hills and Bonne Terre start looking at three row SUVs. Two names come up a lot: the Ford Explorer and the Kia Telluride. Either one will seat a crowd and pull a small camper. They go about it differently, though, and you'll feel that on a gravel county road or a Saturday run to the lake. We're skipping the spec sheet here and talking about how each one fits the way people around here drive. Quick answer: The Ford Explorer is built on a rear wheel drive layout with available four wheel drive, a 400 horsepower V6 on the ST, and a new off road Tremor model, so it suits families who tow, travel gravel roads or want more power. The Kia Telluride leans toward maximum passenger and cargo room, with seating for up to eight and a long factory powertrain warranty, so it suits families who carry more people than gear. Ford Explorer towing Up to 5,000 lbs with the standard Class III tow package Kia Telluride towing Up to 5,500 lbs when properly equipped Seating Explorer seats 6 or 7; Telluride seats up to 8 In this post How they are built differently Seating and cargo room Towing and gravel roads Tech for long drives Warranty and ownership Which one fits you How Are the Ford Explorer and Kia Telluride Built Differently? The big difference is underneath. The Ford Explorer uses a rear wheel drive layout, with four wheel drive available on every trim and standard on the Tremor. Power goes to the rear wheels first, which helps when a trailer is hitched up and weight shifts back. The Kia Telluride is a front wheel drive design with all wheel drive available, the same basic layout most crossovers use. Engines split the same way. Every Explorer runs a turbocharged EcoBoost engine with a 10 speed automatic. You get either a 2.3L four cylinder rated at 300 horsepower or a twin turbo 3.0L V6 rated at 400 horsepower, standard on the ST and available on the new Tremor. The Telluride uses one engine across the lineup, a 3.8L V6 rated at 291 horsepower with an 8 speed automatic. Neither one's wrong. The Explorer gives you more choices and more power at the high end, and the Telluride keeps it simple with one V6 and a front drive setup that's easy to live with. Which SUV Has More Room for Kids, Car Seats and Gear? If you fill every seat most days, the Kia Telluride has the edge. It seats up to eight with a second row bench, or seven with captain's chairs, and it's rated at about 21 cubic feet behind the third row. That'll hold a stroller and a week of groceries with everybody on board. The Ford Explorer seats six or seven depending on the second row, and it's rated at 16.3 cubic feet behind the third row. Fold that third row and the gap closes fast. If the way back is mostly for a kid's friend on the weekend or grandparents in from Fredericktown, the Explorer has plenty of room. Car seats: Bring your own car seat to the test drive. Fit varies more by seat than by SUV, so install it in both rows before you decide. Third row access: Check how easily the second row slides or tips with a car seat in place. Cargo floor: Measure your sports bags, coolers or dog crate against the space with all seats up. Bring your own car seat to the test drive. Fit varies more by seat than by SUV. Which Is Better for Towing and Gravel County Roads? On paper the two are close. Every Ford Explorer comes with a Class III Trailer Tow Package and can tow up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped. The Kia Telluride tows up to 5,500 pounds on properly equipped versions such as the X-Pro, and 5,000 pounds on most others. Where the layouts show up is in how they tow. A rear drive SUV with four wheel drive tends to feel planted pulling a pontoon up a wet ramp at Lake Wappapello or a pop up camper into a gravel campsite. The Explorer Tremor, new to the lineup for 2026, adds standard four wheel drive, extra ride height, a Torsen limited slip differential, underbody protection and all terrain tires. The Telluride X-Pro has all wheel drive, all terrain tires and a raised ride of its own, and it does fine on rutted driveways and forest roads. Farmington driver tip If your weekends include St. Joe State Park, the gravel roads out toward Mark Twain National Forest, or launching a boat at Clearwater Lake, drive both on a rough stretch, not just US 67. Ten minutes on washboard gravel will tell you a lot. Shop Ford Explorer Inventory Compare Explorer Side by Side What Technology Helps on the Commute to St. Louis? Plenty of Farmington families have somebody driving north for work every day. For that drive, the Ford Explorer offers BlueCruise, Ford's hands free highway driving system, on prequalified sections of divided highway. BlueCruise hardware comes standard on the ST, the Platinum and the Tremor with the 3.0L V6, and it runs on a subscription after any included period. You also get a 13.2 inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a built in 5G modem. The Kia Telluride offers its own adaptive cruise control and lane keeping features on many trims. Both have automatic emergency braking and blind spot monitoring, but exact equipment varies by trim, so check the window sticker on the one you're driving. On connected Fords, the FordPass app will start the engine on a cold morning and let you book service from your phone. How Do Warranty and Long Term Ownership Compare? Factory coverage is a real point in Kia's favor. Kia backs the Telluride with a 5 year or 60,000 mile basic warranty and a 10 year or 100,000 mile powertrain warranty for the original owner. Ford's factory coverage on the Explorer is 3 years or 36,000 miles bumper to bumper and 5 years or 60,000 miles on the powertrain. That's not the whole story if you're buying in Farmington. Every new Ford sold at Sam Scism Ford comes with Warranty Forever at no charge. It covers listed engine, transmission and drive axle parts for as long as you own the vehicle, with no mileage limit, as long as you follow the customary maintenance in the agreement and keep records. It's a dealer plan, not a factory warranty, and we're happy to walk you through it. Where you get it serviced matters too. With a Ford dealer right on Flat River Road, oil changes and warranty work stay close to home. Ford Mobile Service can handle routine work at your house or office depending on distance and availability. So Which Three Row SUV Fits Your Family? Two things settle most of these: how you use the third row, and how often you hitch a trailer. Fits you if Ford Explorer You tow a camper, boat or utility trailer and like a rear drive feel You drive gravel roads and want four wheel drive or the off road Tremor You want more power, up to 400 horsepower from the V6 You commute on the highway and want available BlueCruise Fits you if Kia Telluride You regularly carry seven or eight people You want the most cargo room behind the third row You prefer one simple V6 and a front drive based layout A longer factory powertrain warranty matters most to you For the full side by side numbers on the Ford Explorer against the Toyota Highlander, Honda Pilot and Chevrolet Traverse, see our Ford Explorer comparison page. When you're ready to sit in one, browse Ford Explorer inventory and set up a time to come see us. Bring your own car seat to the test drive. Fit varies more by seat than by SUV. Warranty Forever Every new Ford and most used vehicles sold at Sam Scism Ford include Warranty Forever at no charge. Listed engine, transmission and drive axle parts are covered for as long as you own the vehicle, regardless of miles, with no deductible. Keep up with the customary maintenance and records. See the dealer for details. How it works Size and Seating Is the Kia Telluride bigger inside than the Ford Explorer? + Behind the third row, the Telluride has more cargo space, about 21 cubic feet against 16.3 for the Explorer. Fold the third row and the difference shrinks, so measure the gear you haul most. How many people does the Ford Explorer seat? + Six or seven, depending on whether the second row has captain's chairs or a bench. The ST offers an available second row bench. Can adults ride in the third row of either SUV? + They're both better for kids and short trips than long hauls. Have the tallest person in the family climb back there on each one. Towing and Capability Which tows more, the Ford Explorer or the Kia Telluride? + A properly equipped Telluride X-Pro is rated up to 5,500 pounds, while every Explorer is rated up to 5,000 pounds with its standard Class III tow package. For most campers and small boats around here, either one's got enough. Is the Ford Explorer rear wheel drive? + Rear wheel drive is standard, and four wheel drive is available on every trim and standard on the Tremor. That layout helps with traction when a trailer adds weight over the rear axle. What is the Ford Explorer Tremor? + It's the off road Explorer that joined the lineup for 2026, with standard four wheel drive, extra ride height, a Torsen limited slip differential, underbody protection and all terrain tires. Power and Driving How much horsepower does the Ford Explorer have? + The 2.3L EcoBoost is rated at 300 horsepower. The 3.0L EcoBoost V6, standard on the ST and available on the Tremor, is rated at 400 horsepower. What engine does the Kia Telluride use? + Every Telluride uses a 3.8L V6 rated at 291 horsepower with an 8 speed automatic, in front wheel drive or all wheel drive. Does the Ford Explorer offer hands free driving? + BlueCruise is available and comes standard on the ST, Platinum and Tremor with the 3.0L. It works on prequalified divided highways and needs an active subscription after any included period. Warranty and Service Does Kia have a longer warranty than Ford? + Kia's factory powertrain warranty runs 10 years or 100,000 miles for the original owner, longer than Ford's 5 years or 60,000 miles. Sam Scism Ford adds Warranty Forever powertrain coverage on every new Ford it sells, at no charge. Is Warranty Forever a Ford factory warranty? + It's a Sam Scism Ford plan, not a factory one. You'll need to follow the customary maintenance in the agreement, it doesn't transfer, and covered repairs within 150 miles get done at our store. Where can I get my Ford Explorer serviced near Farmington? + Our service center at 5019 Flat River Road works on every Explorer, and you can call 573-430-1693 to book. Ford Mobile Service can also come to you for routine work, depending on distance. Shopping and Test Drives Does Sam Scism Ford have a Ford Explorer comparison page? + Our Explorer comparison page lines it up against the Toyota Highlander, Honda Pilot and Chevrolet Traverse with side by side specs. It's a good companion to this post. Can I trade in my current SUV toward an Explorer? + We appraise any make in any condition, including vehicles you still owe on. Get a trade offer online first, and we'll confirm it in person. What should I bring to an Explorer test drive? + Bring the car seats and your license. If there's a cooler or ball bag that rides along every week, throw that in too and see where it fits. Research the Ford Explorer Trims, features and options for the current Explorer lineup. Explorer Research Trading in an SUV Get an offer on your current vehicle, any make. Value Your Trade