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Ford 2014 Summer Spectacular Giveaway | Lamarque Ford | New Orleans

July 11, 2014 By Matthew Hritz Leave a Comment

The Ford Motor Company is launching a national campaign to promote its brand and its six most notable vehicles. The Summer Spectacular Giveaway is Ford’s way of interacting with its customers and making a learning experience fun and rewarding, as the manufacturer is picking a lucky winner to take home a 2014 vehicle. Participants must watch informative videos about the Fusion, C-Max Hybrid, Mustang, Fusion Hybrid, Escape and/or F-150 in exchange for one of six chances to win a $30,000 voucher to put towards any of these vehicles. Ford is also introducing some exciting video commercials that portray its vehicles as the main characters of movies, giving the promotion a summer block buster twist. Below you will find more information about some of the vehicles and information about where and how to participate.

2014 Ford Fusion

For 2014, Ford is emphasizing Fusion’s style and maneuverability, as it calls its midsize sedan “sleek, stylish and efficient”. The 2014 Fusion offers a wide selection of models, including Fusion hybrid, which can travel at speeds up to 85 mph in electric mode, and Fusion EcoBoost, with its turbo-charged technology and leading fuel efficiency. Aside from an attractive look, Ford Fusion’s aerodynamic design also improves fuel efficiency with its active grille shutters, which control the air flow into the engine compartment. The best technology and fuel efficiency make the 2014 Fusion a best-in-class contender.

2014 C-Max Hybrid

C-Max Hybrid offers two configurations for the eco-friendly customer: C-Max Hybrid with leading 42 city mpg, and the plug-in C-Max Energi, which allows for full charges in 2.5 hours and improves fuel efficiency dramatically. Both models fit comfortably five passengers, with ample space in the second row and many storage and driving options. The 2014 C-Max Hybrid also includes MyFord Touch and SmartGauge, which allows you to monitor your vehicle’s driving information in real time. If you’re into a very pleasant driving experience and low emissions, look no further.

2014 Ford Escape

After its 2103 redesign, the Escape became one of Ford’s best selling vehicles. With its available selection of engines, EcoBoost included, agile handling and best-in-class performance, Ford Escape is a clear winner in the compact SUV category. Additionally, Ford Escape offers intelligent 4WD system, which monitors driving and road conditions every 16 miliseconds while automatically adjusts torque and power.

For the Ford 2014 Summer Spectacular Giveaway, the company is also promoting Mustang, F-150 and Fusion Hybrid. For more information and to access the promotional videos, access the giveaway website.

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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 Mustang Features| Lamarque Ford | New Orleans, Metairie, Kenner

June 25, 2014 By Matthew Hritz Leave a Comment

The all-new 2015 Mustang is scheduled to make its debut later this fall and we couldn’t be more excited. Rumors keep rolling in that Ford is ceasing manufacturing of the current model as it readies production lines for the 2015 Ford Mustang, so we decided to give you an in-depth look at the latest version of the legendary car. We’ve already covered a few key aspects of the vehicle, like the 2015 Mustang aerodynamics and the celebration surrounding its 50th anniversary, but today we’ll wrap-up the official information from the company. Find out what makes the new Mustang so special and why we’re so thrilled about this legendary muscle car.

Mustang Design Features

The 2015 Mustang shares little with its predecessors, as the new car has been completely redesigned. The most noticeable change comes to the front of the car, as the hood has been lowered significantly and the headlights came forward. This affects the whole silhouette of the car and it projects a more aggressive look, giving the Mustang a longer hood and more recessed cabin. From front to back, the bold lines chiseled on the side panels take you to the Mustang’s slimmed down ‘hips’, which have as much taste as they have an aerodynamic purpose. The rear wheels, however, are offset twenty millimeters outwards on each side, giving the 2015 Mustang a wider back fender which complements the muscle car look.

Despite the full redesign, the 2015 model is unmistakably a Mustang. The new silhouette and roof line helped modernize the car, while giving it the fastback profile reminiscent of the 1964 and 1965 models. The design team also set to give Mustang a more three-dimensional look, which is visible on the surfacing of the taillights and the side panels.

Performance

Although the company has been mum about horsepower and fuel rating, details about engine configurations and trims are readily available. The base model sports a 3.7 liter V6, similar to the current 2014 offering that achieves 305 horsepower with a manual transmission. New to the line-up is a 4 cylinder Ecoboost Mustang, with a 2.3 liter engine and the signature turbocharger seen across these fuel efficient engines. Ford assures that the high-capacity direct injection system and the twin-scroll low-inertia turbocharger will give Mustang Ecoboost an improved time-to-torque and exhilarating driving dynamics. As always, a 5.0 liter V8 joins the party with a promised increase in performance.

Technology Improvements

Ford has designed the 2015 Mustang completely around the driver’s needs, hence all the new features serve the daunting task of enhancing driving experience. All 2015 Mustangs come standard with intelligent access / push-to-start button technology, which means that as long as the key is on you, you can unlock and start the car without reaching into your pocket. Blind Spot Information System is also available, a system that warns you when vehicles are approaching you from blind spots.

The Convertible

The Ford Motor company has in essence designed two different 2015 Mustangs, the fastback and the convertible. Ford claims the 2015 drop top was conceived from the ground up to be a convertible, and its lines and styling show just that. Whether the top is up or down, the 2015 Mustang has a great character and an undeniable Mustang look.

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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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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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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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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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How To Extend Your Car’s Life | Lamarque Ford | New Orleans, Kenner, Metairie

May 9, 2014 By Matthew Hritz Leave a Comment

You’ve probably heard stories of people driving cars with over 250,000 miles on them. What’s the secret? We’ve put together a list of tips that will help your car run longer. Regular maintenance and common sense play an important role, as well as the way you drive.

Change Your Fluids Regularly

This is the single most important thing you can do to keep your car in great shape. Although this applies to all fluids (transmission, breaks, coolant, etc), pay special attention to the engine oil. If you drive a new car, stick to the manufacturer’s recommended changing intervals (some people recommend doing it sooner). If your car is older or has over 100,000 miles, it might be a good time to think about high mileage or synthetic oil, which better lubricates your engine. Changing fluids regularly will flush out any build up found in hoses and moving parts, keeping your engine in excellent condition.

Keep Your Car Waxed and Clean

Wax protects your car’s clear coat from the elements, making the paint last longer. It also allows you to wash your car’s exterior less often. Remember that paint not only makes your car look nice, but it also prevents the metal from rusting.

Drive At Highway Speeds

Cars are meant to be driven, and your engine operates at its peak performance when it drives at low rpms for long periods of time. That’s one of the reasons why your vehicle gets better gas mileage on the highway. Your engine also works better when it has reached optimal temperature, so driving short trips at city speeds is less than ideal.

Buy Gas From Reputable Sources

Go out of your way and ask the right questions. Some gas stations lack the filtration system required to keep gasoline clean at all times. Ask the associate if the filters are replaced regularly and if they mix the gasoline with anything else. You want to make sure you’re buying clean gas!

Look For Signs of Trouble

Whether your car is old or new, you should always be on the lookout for signs of trouble like leaks, odd smells, weird noises or any driving changes you might notice. It is always cheaper to repair a small problem; remember replacing a transmission or engine can cost thousands of dollars.

Having a trusted mechanic is helpful as well. Your local dealership has certified and trained experts and have the support from a national brand. Always shop around and make sure you and your car are treated with respect.

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Engine Fuel Economy Improvements | Lamarque Ford | New Orleans, Metairie, Kenner

May 5, 2014 By Matthew Hritz Leave a Comment

Ten years ago, the top selling trucks in the U.S. had an average combined EPA fuel economy of only 14 mpg. Today, that number is closer to 20. What has happened? Have we sacrificed performance for fuel efficiency? Not at all. Although car manufacturers have shrunk the engines significantly, new technologies allow for better performance AND better gas mileage. Let’s take a look at some of the improvements in truck engines.

Fuel efficiency depends on factors other than the engine, like aerodynamics, weight and rolling resistance. However, it is increasingly harder for pick-up trucks to improve in other aspects of fuel efficiency while at the same time adding new technological improvements. Remember, the job a truck is hired to do is not to consume as little fuel as possible, but to tow, carry and drag.

Turbochargers
This technology has been around for a while and has been used in high performance cars for decades. Manufacturers started implementing turbochargers in trucks as it allows for a smaller engine without losing torque. Ford’s Ecoboost engines are use turbocharging to compensate for their small size (3.5 V6 to power a 6000 lb vehicle).

Variable Displacement
Variable displacement is also known as cylinder deactivation. The system works by allowing some of the cylinders to stop moving while the throttle is closed or running at steady speeds, like highway speeds, without affecting its power. Before its modern implementation, variable displacement technology failed to reach mass market because of unsolved engineering challenges dating back to the early 80s. Today, this technology is widely used by Honda, GM and Mercedes-Benz.

Direct Fuel Injection
Direct Fuel injection allows for a better control of the amount of fuel that goes into the cylinders as it is delivered directly, thus reducing waste. Ecoboost engines by Ford rely heavily on this technology coupled with turbocharging.

Lighter Materials
New manufacturing techniques have made materials such as aluminum a viable option for many parts of a vehicle, engines included. This reduces the weight of engines by about half, compared to iron block engines. However, there were some problems with early aluminum engines as they couldn’t handle the high temperatures. That’s all in the past as most of today’s standard small engines are aluminum.

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