Ford Service and Repair FAQ's

Frequently Asked Questions About Ford Service and Repair

The surest way to protect your Ford's value and make sure it functions well for many years is to maintain it properly at regular, factory-recommended intervals. Our Healey Brothers Ford service team has answers to frequently asked automotive service questions that we believe will be helpful.

How often does Ford recommend getting an oil change?

Ford recommends that you get your oil changed every six months or every 5,000 miles, assuming you use today's more advanced synthetic motor oil. If you drive your Ford F-150 or Ford Explorer in dusty, dirty conditions or you do a lot of stop-and-go driving in the city, you might need to get your Ford's oil change more frequently. Talk with one of the professionals in our service center to get a personalized recommendation based on your driving conditions.

What are the warning signs that I might need to replace my brake pads?

The answer will vary with every driver, based on the number of miles you drive and your unique driving style. Stop-and-go traffic can tend to wear down brake pads faster than if you drive primarily on freeways around Hyde Park, NY. If you hear a squeak or high pitched squeal when you step on the brake pedal, that's a sign the brake pads are wearing out. Bring your Ford to our service center so we can do a brake inspection and install replacement pads so you can stop safely.

How long can I expect my Ford's battery to last?

Under normal driving conditions, you should get three to five years of use from the Motorcraft® battery in your Ford. If you notice your headlights are dim or you get weak performance from the radio or other electronic components, it's a signal that your battery is getting weaker. Extreme temperatures are especially tough on a battery so we recommend getting it inspected in hot weather in Wappingers Falls, NY or before winter when temperatures can get downright frigid.

How often should I get a tire rotation and a wheel alignment?

You can help your tires last longer and wear more evenly by getting a tire rotation with every oil change. By allowing us to reposition your tires regularly, you can extend the life of your tires. It's also a great idea to have us check your alignment every time you get an oil change.

When your wheels aren't properly aligned, it can shorten the life of your tires and can even cause your steering to the off, so it's definitely an important safety matter. If your wheels aren't properly aligned, we can do a professional alignment and get your Ford back on track.

What should I do if my "Check Engine" light comes on?

There are some warning signs you don't want to ignore, and the "Check Engine" light is one of them. If that happens, it's essential that you bring your Ford to our service center right away and ask us to run a diagnostic test. That allows us to identify the issue and get it repaired right away. Please feel free to contact us at Healey Brothers Ford in Poughkeepsie, NY about any other service questions you have.