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2015 Ford Flex Features | Lamarque Ford | New Orleans, Metairie, Kenner

June 12, 2014 By Matthew Hritz Leave a Comment

The 2015 Ford Flex retains its spot as the go-to vehicle for trendy families. Since its introduction in 2009, Flex has redefined the family car segment as it brings new options to the table. With its classic yet refined looks, the Flex is a great SUV or minivan alternative, as it can seat up to seven passengers comfortably. For the 2015 model year, the crossover comes in three different engine/drive train combinations, three trims and dozens of other options from navigation to roof color.

Engine Specs

The 2015 Ford Flex offers three engine/drive configurations: a base V6 front-wheel drive, a V6 all-wheel drive, and the famed Ecoboost engine. The entry level option provides an exceptionally well balanced engine, giving drivers unmatched power and fuel economy as the standard option for all trims. For those who prefer, Ford is offering an all-wheel drive variation of the same engine, allowing consumers to take the Flex off-road. Optional on the Flex Limited is the top of the line V6 turbo-charged Ecoboost, which delivers 365 hp.

New Interior Features

Overall, the 2015 Flex has an attractive modern design and a roomy layout, as it carries over the versatility of the previous version. The front console is equipped with a standard stereo system with an input jack and SYNC with MyFord, which is upgraded to a responsive touch screen on the SEL and Limited versions. Tech lovers are going to enjoy the enhanced features of the Flex Limited, as it includes a 12 speaker Sony audio system, Navigation with Sirius XM and HD radio technology, and standard rear-view camera.

Tech features aside, the base model Flex SE comes standard with delicate cloth power seats, auto-fold second row and temperature control. Limited and SEL trims get an upgrade to leather seats and automatic climate control. For 2015, Ford is including some awesome family-minded features like grocery bag hooks, cargo nets, extra storage pockets and cup holders, even an optional refrigerated console for drinks and snacks. Remember to test drive the Ford Flex today and keep it in mind as your next family ride!

Exterior Features

Here’s where 2015 Ford Flex shines, retaining its classic and stylish design which set it aside from the competition. What other family vehicle comes standard with reverse-sensing system, halogen headlamps and integrated blind spot mirrors? Competitors’ SUVs and crossovers will make you pay dearly for these features, if they offer them at all. An upgrade to the SEL trim will get you a myriad of practical features like a power liftgate, fog lamps and cross-traffic alerts system.

If you’re in the market for a family hauler, check out the 2015 Ford Flex personally, as it offers top of the line features and a stylish wagon design. Ford has put in a lot of effort to make the Flex stand out and provide both drivers and passengers the best comfort and experience.

Trim Comparison

Lastly, here’s a short recap of what each 2015 Ford Flex has to offer:

Ford Flex SE

Only engine option is 3.5 V6 FWD
Six shift SelectShift Automatic transmission
Front-wheel drive
17-in aluminum wheels
6-way power driver seat
SYNC with MyFord

Ford Flex SEL

Same options as SE plus:

Available AWD engine/drive configuration
Standard 18-in aluminum wheels
10-way power driver seat
Optional leather-trimmed seats
Dual-zone electronic automatic temperature control
Standard SiriusXM Satellite radio
SYNC with MyFord Touch
Standard wood appearance appliqués
Garage door opener
Standard Cargo net
Heated front seats
Optional rear-view camera

Ford Flex Limited

Same options as SEL plus:

Optional turbo-charged V6 Ecoboost engine
Available AWD
Standard 19-in painted aluminum wheels/available 20-in
Standard perforated leather seats
Standard Sony audio system with 20 speakers
Available DVD entertainment system
HD Radio technology
Standard ambient lighting
Leather-wrapped steering wheel
Memory for driver’s seat and mirrors
Laminated front door glass
Available second-row console
110v inverter outlets
Standard rear-view camera
Optional adaptive cruise control and forward collision warning
Push-button start
Optional cooled front seats
Standard power liftgate
HID headlamps
Body color exterior mirrors
Rain-sensing wipers
More exterior color options

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Lamarque Ford is proud to be one of the premier dealerships in New Orleans, LA. Located in Kenner, LA, Lamarque Ford is committed to providing you the best customer service and vehicle service for the life of your vehicle. Whether you’re on the market to purchase, finance, or service a new or used Ford vehicle, you’ve come to the right place.

2015 Ford Fiesta: New Features | Lamarque Ford | New Orleans, Metairie, Kenner

June 10, 2014 By Matthew Hritz Leave a Comment

Today, the Ford Fiesta has become the go-to model for a growing number of Americans that care about the environment but don’t want to sacrifice a fun ride. With the 2015 Ford Fiesta rolling out soon, here are some features and specifications to look out for in the upcoming model including a turbo-charged Ford Ecoboost engine.

Features: What’s New?

Following the Fiesta’s facelift in 2014, the 2015 Ford Fiesta remains virtually unchanged for the upcoming model. However, reports suggest a new color and a small price reduction might be on their way. Even when left untouched, the Fiesta retains its spot in the top five affordable small vehicles. Year after year, Ford has proven to have a strong contender in the Fiesta, as it carries over an impressive engine lineup and options only found in bigger sedans.

Exterior

The 2015 Ford Fiesta will return with two available body configurations, a hatchback and a sedan, and three engine options. The base model is an efficient 4-cylinder engine, offering up to 120 horsepower and 31 mpg combined. Entry level buyers should remain confident as the base Fiesta S offers enough punch and comfort to rival other cars in its price range. Ford will also be offering two turbo-charged Eco-Boost engine options: a 3-cylinder for the SE and Titanium models and a 4-cylinder performance option for the speedy ST version.

Interior

The interior of the new 2015 Ford Fiesta will feature AppLink capabilities for voice control function along with Ford SYNC for a complete hands-free experience for navigation and listening to music. The upcoming model will also feature an emergency assist system that notifies emergency services if a car accident occurs. For added safety, the 2015 Fiesta will also feature a driver knee airbag in addition to the standard dual front airbags.

Benefits of a Compact Car?

Although the Ford Fiesta is an affordable compact, it is not necessarily targeted at low-budget consumers. Anyone looking for great fuel economy should make the Fiesta an option. Reviewers of the sporty Fiesta ST praise its maneuverability and fast throttle response, and the fully-equipped versions stack up well against entry level luxury cars. Let’s also remember the engine offered in the ST model is the same found in the larger Ecoboost Ford Fusion, a 3,400 lb. vehicle (the Fiesta ST weighs 700 lbs. less!). Ford has found the perfect balance in the Fiesta with world-class fuel efficiency and a small-car, big-engine approach for the thrill-seeking driver.

Competition

In today’s crowded car market, competition has many names. Virtually every car manufacturer today offers subcompact models, from Honda’s Fit, the Fiat 500, Mazda 3 and Kia Rio, consumers have more options than ever. Still, Ford Fiesta stays ahead of the competition and shines where others don’t. Let’s recap and look at all the options Ford has to offer:

Hatch back/sedan options
Ecoboost technology and ST sport models available
World-class fuel efficiency
Fun to drive (many other compacts fall short here)
Latest technology available, like MyFord Touch, Bluetooth connectivity, automatic temperature control, sport seats, etc.
Top-of the line design

Let’s hope Ford surprises us for 2015 with more extra features or a new diesel engine, as the manufacturer already offers clean diesel versions of the Fiesta in Europe. In the meantime, let’s enjoy what the current model has to offer and head to your local Ford dealership for a test drive.

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Ford Lightweight Concept Announced | Lamarque Ford | New Orleans, Kenner, Metairie

June 6, 2014 By Matthew Hritz Leave a Comment

For the last few years, The Ford Motor Company has invested heavily in new technologies and it has paid off. Next year, the company will be introducing a redesigned Mustang and F-150, which show Ford’s fast paced implementation and commitment to research. As with most models, concept cars and prototypes become part of the learning process in which engineers understand the actual pros and cons of new materials and manufacturing processes. Last week, Ford introduced a new prototype model to explore the lightweight technologies future models will use.

Ford Lightweight Concept

The Ford Lightweight is a concept car that builds on existing technologies developed for the all-new 2015 Ford F-150. The vehicle’s body seemingly resembles a Ford fusion, except it weighs in at only 700 lbs. Ford has achieved this through a new process for manufacturing high-strength steel for the frame and a new aluminum alloy for the body. The result? A full-size sedan that weighs as little as a Ford Fiesta.

Future Development

Ford’s new blueprint for sustainability means the company is focusing on better performance, improved fuel efficiency and less carbon emissions. With their latest push in materials research, Ford has found that weight has as much to do with fuel efficiency as does the engine and driving habits. Hence, the benefits of a lighter, stronger car are immense.

Additionally, Ford has found great success in prototype development as it’s currently enjoying increasing sales around the world and an array of new models coming next year. Prototype vehicles are used by car manufacturers as a learning medium and give them the flexibility to test different materials, engines and production techniques before

Other Prototypes

Prior to announcing the 2015 F-150, Ford introduced the “Atlas” concept, a full size truck with a bolder design, LED headlights and an aluminum and steel body. Ford engineers used the design to test and refine elements that eventually led to the F-150. Throughout the process, Ford research team was able to determine whether or not the aluminum alloy would withstand extreme conditions, such as construction sites and long hauling trips.

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Ford Certified Pre-Owned: Best Used Cars | Lamarque Ford | New Orleans

June 3, 2014 By Matthew Hritz Leave a Comment

If you’re in the market for a car, you’re probably looking at both new and used vehicles. While we understand a new car will offer the best bang for your buck, used cars are a more viable option when on a strict budget. However, used cars tend to have a bad reputation as there are many unknowns, like the car’s service history, accident reports, hidden problems and the overall state of the engine, transmission and frame. Fortunately, there’s Ford Certified Pre-Owned (Ford CPO), a testing and inspection program that ensures you get the best quality Fords out there. Let’s take a look at the basics.

Testing and Inspection

As part of the Ford Certified Pre-Owned program, Ford thoroughly tests and inspects each certified pre-owned model to meet only the highest quality standards, covering a wide range of items. Each test specifically targets common known problem areas of wear and tear and addresses them by repairing or replacing the parts affected. In addition, all certified Fords have been driven for less than 80,000 miles, which guarantees engine and other parts are in great condition before even being inspected! Here’s an overall look at the inspection process:

Vehicle’s History. It addresses VIN inspection, service or manufacturer’s recalls, scheduled maintenance and emissions stickers.
Road Test. Focuses on the actual drivability of the vehicle. Items like engine starts, acceleration, cruise control, break performance, shocks, cabin noise and dashboard gauges are checked.
Vehicle Exterior. This is your car’s first line of defense against the elements and it requires a comprehensive inspection. Certified Ford technicians look at body panels, bumpers, doors, handles and their operating mechanisms. Mirrors, windshields and lights are also tested during this part of the process.
Vehicle Interior. In this step, everything from the air conditioning to the stereo system are inspected. We pay especial attention to the vehicle’s safety features like airbags and seat-belts, so you can rest assured your Ford will retain its safety rating.
Diagnostics. Aside from visual and mechanical inspections, we run a self diagnostic for all CMDTCs (Continuous Memory Diagnostic Trouble Codes).
Underhood. All the vehicle’s fluids are checked, flushed and replaced if needed. The engine’s belts, hoses, moving parts and wiring are inspected, along with the cooling, fuel and electrical systems. As you can see, nothing in our certified cars goes unnoticed.
Underbody. From bumper to bumper, we look at the used car’s underbody and determine its frame strength and transmission and exhaust performance. We also look at a vehicle’s most important (and often overlooked) safety features: your wheels, tires and breaking system.

Benefits

Ford Certified Pre-Owned vehicles are more than just a used car. As you learned, Ford takes quality very seriously and it’s confident on its testing process. That’s why every Ford CPO comes with a 12-month/12,000 mile comprehensive limited warranty coverage and a 7-year/100,000 mile powertrain limited warranty, which covers engine, transmission, steering, electrical components and much more. See the full list of Ford CPO limited warranty coverage. Ford also offers 24/7 roadside assistance for the whole duration of the limited warranty coverage.

Where Do I Get One?

We’re glad you ask. Lamarque Ford of New Orleans offers a great selection of used vehicles, including Ford Certified Pre-Owned. From Mustangs to F-150s, you’ll find just the Ford you’re looking for. Come visit us today so we can show you our current inventory and experience the Lamarque customer service.

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100 Days Of Summer | Lamarque Ford | New Orleans, Metairie, Kenner

May 30, 2014 By Matthew Hritz Leave a Comment

After a seemingly long winter, followed by a cold spring full of surprises, summer is almost here. Although the hottest season won’t officially start until June 21, the folks at Lamarque Ford decided to kick-off summer a bit earlier and want to celebrate it big time. Like every year, Lamarque Ford’s 100 Days Of Summer is back and we want to share our summer joy with you.

For the last four years, Lamarque Ford has connected with the New Orleans area neighbors to celebrate summer and to thank them for choosing the best Ford dealership in the area. As a gift to the community, Lamarque Ford organizes a series of weekly giveaways culminating with a grand prize of free fuel for a year.

This year, Lamarque Ford is holding a 12 week promotion with 12 weekly winners receiving a $100 fuel card as part of the 100 Days of Summer Giveaway! Winners will be chosen each Monday morning after verifying that the winner has “Liked” Lamarque Ford’s Facebook page. We will also be introducing 10 other supplementary prizes so don’t let those first 12 weekly winners dishearten you from playing.

Additional prizes and values include:

1. Blue Bayou Family Passes – $135.00

2. Aquarium of America Family Passes – $77.00

3. New Orleans Insectarium Passes – $57.00

4. Kayak from Massey’s Outfitters – $400.00

5. Zephyr’s Family & Friends Pool Party – $1,250 – 1,800

6. Restaurant Gift Certificates (4@$50) – $200

7. Set of Free Tires from Lamarque Ford! – up to $500

Entering Lamarque Ford’s Free Fuel For a Year Sweepstakes is easy. You can visit us at our Facebook, Twitter, or Lamarque 100 Days page to sign up. You can even come on over to Lamarque Ford in Kenner and we’ll sign you up in person. To keep you posted on the campaign, we will be sending out three different text messages – the 1st was sent on Friday, May 23 to alert our registered fans that the 100 Days of Summer has begun. The next messages will be sent on Wednesday, July 23 and Thursday, August 21 to announce the end of the competition on Saturday, August 23.

Make sure to stay updated with our social media accounts for your chance to be one the 22 lucky winners (12 weekly winners and 10 supplementary prize winners) to walk away with a free year of gas as the grand prize for the this year’s 100 Days of Summer Giveaway!

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2014 Ford Transit Connect Revealed: Features, Specs | New Orleans

May 29, 2014 By Matthew Hritz Leave a Comment

Fans will be excited to see that the automaker has finally moved forward with the Ford Transit by introducing a new modern, sleek body style for the 2014 Ford Transit Connect. Although the previous model did have its perks, the new 2014 Ford Transit introduces an array of new appealing features that make this new Ford vehicle a must-get for Ford fans who want a combination of towing capacity, excellent fuel economy, and cargo-van/passenger-wagon capabilities. See your local Ford dealer for the new 2014 Ford Transit Connect today!

Engines and Sizes Galore!

The most noticeable change to the 2014 Ford Transit Connect is its sleek new appearance, but what’s going on with the under the hood specs? For starters, the old 2.0-liter engine found on the 2013 model has been replaced with two more powerful motors to choose from: the 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine and the turbocharged Ford Ecoboost 1.6-liter 4-cylinder engine.

In addition to new engine power, the 2014 Ford Transit Connect will also introduce a passenger-wagon styled vehicle to move away from only contractors using the vehicle. It makes an excellent vehicle for families that want the towing capacity of a truck, but the comfort of a van or SUV. The 2014 model will introduce a 5-passenger and 7-passenger longer model. You have the option of getting the 5-passenger model with either a 2.5-liter, 169-horsepower I4 or a 1.6-liter, 178-horsepower turbocharged I4 Ford Ecoboost engine, or the 7-passenger model with only the 2.5-liter, 169 horsepower I4.

Not only does the 2014 Ford Transit Connect introduce more power via the 2.5-liter and turbocharged Ecoboost Engine, but it also introduces better fuel economy! The Ecoboost engine will deliver 22 MPG city and 29 MPG HWY, while the 2.5-liter engine will bring a less appealing 20 MPG city and 28 HWY. Keep in mind however, that you can only get away with the Ecoboost engine with the 5-passenger vehicle. So you’ll have to decide whether fuel economy is more important than additional passenger/cargo space that the 7-passenger vehicle offers.

Meet the New Interior

Whether you decide to get the 5-passenger or 7-passenger 2014 Ford Transit Connect, you will be introduced to a brand new, spacious interior with plenty of leg room, capacity, and comfort. If you require extra room for transporting cargo, you can fold the second and third rows to add an additional 104.2 cubic feet. You can also customize how you room the interior with second rows down but third rows up with reclining seats for extra comfort.

The 2014 Transit Connect basic features will include AdvanceTrac with roll stability control along with front, pelvis, and side airbags and side-curtain airbags for every row of seats, and anti-lock brakes.

Different Models Available

There will be five different models available with the 2014 Ford Transit Connect:

Van XL – will include the basics, 16-in steel wheels, remote keyless entry, power windows, A/C, AM/FM stereo with AUX input at $22,995.
Van XLT – includes power heated mirrors, fog lights, 4.2-in info display, CD audio system and upgraded driver seat at $24,520.
Wagon XL – includes the basics for 7-passenger (added seat rows) at $25,995.
Wagon XLT – includes XLT features and available at 5-passenger at $25,520 or 7-passenger at $27,520.
Wagon Titanium – includes 16-in alloy wheels, leather upholstery, power driver seat, leather-wrapped steering wheel, dual-zone climate control, SYNC voice-command and rear view camera at $29,995.

Stop by your local Ford dealership to see each of the 2014 Ford Transit Connect trims and walk away with yours today.

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The Google Car: Google Now Building Its Prototype Self-Driving Cars | Lamarque Ford | New Orleans, Metairie, Kenner

May 28, 2014 By Matthew Hritz Leave a Comment

For the last several years, Google has been investing heavily in new technologies outside the realm of internet search. Housed under the Google X moniker, these projects are dedicated to making major technological advancements and include Google Self-Driving Cars, amongst others. Google’s autonomous car efforts started as an interplay of software and hardware by combining Google Maps with sensors attached to existing vehicles like Toyotas, Audis and Lexuses. However, last Tuesday Google announced their own self-driving car prototype, which bears no recognizable name plate and is designed in-house by the search giant. What does this mean for the future of the company and the industry as a whole?

The Google Car

Back in 2004, the U.S. Department of Defense started a competition for the advancement of vehicle automation and autonomous vehicles, The DARPA Grand Challenge. In short, the competition consisted of American research teams that designed and developed self-driving vehicles and in 2005, Stanford Team won the first place. Sebastian Thrun, then head of the Stanford team, founded Goolge’s special projects division, Google X. Thurn now leads the development of their driverless car initiative, which has started producing their own vehicles.

According to their official blog, Google started the project to “prevent traffic accidents, free up people’s time, and reduce carbon emissions,” and they seem to be on the right path. Their newly introduced prototype is a small, cartoonish looking vehicle, which front resembles a human face and lacks a steering wheel, pedals and mirrors. The absence of these now seemingly obsolete artifacts, points out to Google’s own admission that today’s cars are built around a driver, not a rider. Will this be a trend for others to follow? You bet.

By designing and producing their own vehicles, Google is exploring design elements that will help them achieve their goals. The removal of driver-centric parts is considerably decreasing the weight of the car, translating into better fuel efficiency. Google’s own design has also allowed them to customize the controls of the car, which according to the company consist of two buttons (go and emergency) and a GPS screen.

Aesthetically, Google’s self-driving car seems approachable and welcoming. Its curved lines and small size project a friendly face, as if trying to disguise the fear and uncertainty associated with self-operated machines.

Now that the technology is ready, the biggest challenge ahead will be to convince people that these cars are actually safe.

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2015 Ford F-150 Built Stronger, Smarter, with Ecoboost | New Orleans

May 25, 2014 By Matthew Hritz Leave a Comment

The all-new 2015 Ford F-150 will prove to be the toughest, smartest, most innovative truck out there. Ford is calling its new truck “the most patented” thanks to its long list of amazing features and improvements. The new F-150 boasts over 100 new patents, as Ford engineers have redesigned many components to bring better performance, fuel efficiency and safety.

Stronger Steel Frame

Ford is introducing a brand new frame, in which it increases the amount of high-strength steel from 23% to 77%. This new alloy along with the Ford-developed heat treatment for the frame, allow for an impressively strong body. Believe it or not, even with its re-strengthened formula, Ford is shaving a few pounds off the 2015 Ford F-150’s frame.

Better Fuel Efficiency With Ecoboost

Ford is introducing the lowest displacement engine in a full size truck with the second generation F-150 Ecoboost. Rated at 2.5 liters, this turbo-charged V6 engine promises to deliver first-class fuel efficiency without sacrificing performance. Ford has achieved this through a variety of engineering tricks like using both aluminum and iron as part of the engine block, creating a powerful yet compact enclosure.

New Smart Technology

Ford is also betting on some interesting tech gadgets, like the 360º view camera. Already present in some high-end luxury cars, this is the first time a pick-up truck uses such technology. It consists of different cameras positioned in the back, front and sides, and provide a unified “birds-eye” image from above. Another first to pick-up trucks is Ford’s introduction of LED headlights. As the previous post on LED headlights discussed, LED lights not only last longer than traditional ones, but they also improve visibility and safety.

With the all-new 2015 Ford F-150, Ford is positioning its truck as not only the class leader, but as the future visionary. Ford has enjoyed the top spot for so long it can now think ahead and improve performance in new ways. If you would like to learn more about what Ford has to offer, stop by your local Ford dealership and take a look around.

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Greatest Movie And TV Fords | Lamarque Ford | New Orleans, Metairie, Kenner

May 20, 2014 By Matthew Hritz Leave a Comment

Ford has always been known to make a statement, including a heavy presence in pop culture for the last several decades. Many of our favorite movies and shows feature at least one iconic Ford model that saves the day, solves the crime or gets the girl.

We have selected ten of the most memorable films and series starring Ford vehicles, from the oldest to most recent. Movie buff or not, you may recognize a few of these famous Fords.

Batman (1966) (series) – There isn’t much not to love about Batman, and before Michael Keaton, George Clooney and Christian Bale wore the mask, Adam West ran the show in the 1960 series. However, the big star of the television program was none other than the 1955 Ford Lincoln Futura Concept Car, also know as the “Batmobile”.

Starsky and Hutch (1975) (series) – If the Starsky and Hutch series tells us anything it is that you don’t need a fancy suit styled after a flying mammal to fight crime, but you might need a red and white Ford Gran Torino. The “Striped Tomato” became emblematic for the show that was centered around two street-smart cops solving crimes. Although the “Striped Tomato” was switched from a ’74 model to a ’73 model throughout the run of the series the car was made to look identical in each scene.

Grease (1978) – “Auto-matic, Systo-matic, Hydro-matic”, it was the 1948 Ford De Luxe “Greased Lightning” that had audiences loving the famous 70’s musical, set in the 1950s. The car not only appeared in several of the high-energy singing and dancing scenes but was responsible for the final drag race that took place near the end of the movie when Danny and our beloved “T-Birds” triumphantly took the win.

RoboCop (1987) – In the 1980s, Ford was taking some big hits from the competition. That is, until a line of cars only a year old at the time called the Ford Taurus found its way on to the set of RoboCop. The movie, set in a fictionalized Detroit used all Taurus LX’s as police cars and brought the line to life. Still today Taurus is the fourth-oldest nameplate in the Ford family sold in North America.

Thelma and Louise (1991) – If you’re going to go on a cross-country road trip filled with self discovery might as well do it in a stylish 1966 Ford Thunderbird. Although the unlikely duo pack many miles on the getaway ride, the most memorable scene is the dramatic exit when the Ford convertible flies through the air off a cliff from the Grand Canyon.

Jurassic Park (1993) – The jungle, the ripples in the water, the green and yellow Ford Explorer XLT, Jurassic Park gave a whole new meaning to “built Ford tough” when angry t-rex ripped this 1991 SUV to shreds and it still lasted (almost) throughout the rest of the movie.

Dumb and Dumber (1994) – You may have a hard time recognizing this 1984 customized Ford Econoline, but when Harry and Lloyd navigated this K-9 inspired van to Aspen it was hard to forget.

The Big Lebowski (1998) – No vehicle quite represented the carefree white-Russian drinking “Dude” like his worn in 1973 Ford Gran Torino. This 90’s cult favorite showed the 73′ model Torino in a new light and was one of the iconic pieces that made this movie so hilarious to watch.

Gone in 60 Seconds (2000) – The Ford Mustang has always been an incredible classic timepiece for American pop culture, and in the fast-action film the revamped 1973 Mustang made this millennium movie standout from others of its kind.

Scooby Doo (2002) – Last on our list is probably one of the most well-known of the big screen automobile’s that belonged to a group of problem solving teenagers and one very hungry dog. “The Mystery Machine”, a bright blue and green custom Ford Econoline van, has always been an eye-catching set of wheels since its cartoon series in 1969.

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Tires Make A Difference | Lamarque Ford | Metairie, New Orleans, Kenner

May 16, 2014 By Matthew Hritz Leave a Comment

When considering car safety, most motorists ignore their tires. Tires are more than just rubber, as they directly interact with the surface and transmit power from your car into the ground. Tires also play a vital role in breaking, stability and fuel economy. It should come as no surprise then, that tire technology as been consistently improving over the years. Here are some tips that will help you and your car drive better.

Monitor Your Tire Pressure

Most new vehicles are equipped with a tire pressure monitoring system, which is a sensor that alerts the driver when tire pressure is low. However, some systems are more sensitive than others, so it is recommended to regularly check the pressure with a pressure gauge. Always consult your owner’s manual to ensure your tires have the optimal amount of air. Remember that improper tire pressure can compromise stability and breaking, so take this seriously!

Rotate Your Tires

Rotating the tires to opposite corners of your car will extend their life. Although this step is not crucial for safety, it can save you a few bucks in the long run. Most cars have traction on only one or two wheels, so there’s always more wear on a certain pair of tires (front ones or rear ones). Hence, rotating them evens out the damage to the tread evenly.

Keep Them Balanced

Tires only need to be balanced when they’re first put on your wheels. Each tire is balanced to its own wheel, so rotating the tires does not necessarily mean you have to get them balanced. However, if you’ve damaged the sidewall or hit a big pot hole, you could be better off with a balancing. Any time a tire and rim are separated, they need to be balanced.

Inspect Tires For Wear

This might not be part of your daily routine, but it could even save your life. Your tire can be visually damaged and still not be detected by the pressure monitoring system. Don’t wait until is too late and your tire blows up at highway speeds! Some people recommend to inspect your tires daily before leaving for work, and is as simple as walking around your car looking for signs of damage like worn sidewalls or foreign objects in the tires.

Watch Your Weight

All tires are built to withstand a certain weight. Do not overload them as it could cause them to blow up or get damaged. Consult your owner’s manual or your tire warranty to learn more about your tires’ weight rating. Overloading your tires usually means you’re overloading your vehicle’s suspension, which is never a good idea. If it feels too heavy, it probably is.

Replace Accordingly

As you perform your scheduled car maintenance, ask your mechanic to look at your tires and see if they need to be replaced. The rule of thumb is the penny test, and consists on sticking a penny into your tire’s tread with Lincoln’s head upside down. If the tread covers the top of his head, you should be good to go. If there’s any concern over wet roads or hot weather, don’t hesitate to take your car to your local mechanic.

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